Personalized cells, tissues, and organs for transplantation from a humanized, bespoke, designated-pathogen free, (non-human) donor and methods and products relating to same

ABSTRACT

A biological system for generating and preserving a repository of personalized, humanized transplantable cells, tissues, and organs for transplantation, wherein the biological system is biologically active and metabolically active, the biological system having genetically reprogrammed cells, tissues, and organs in a non-human animal for transplantation into a human recipient, wherein the non-human animal does not present one or more surface glycan epitopes and specific sequences from the wild-type swine&#39;s SLA is replaced with a synthetic nucleotides based on a human captured reference sequence from a human recipient&#39;s HLA.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 17/079,821 filed Oct. 26, 2020, which claims priority of U.S. Ser. No. 16/830,213 filed Mar. 25, 2020, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,883,084, which claims priority of U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/975,611, filed Feb. 12, 2020, U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/964,397, filed Jan. 22, 2020, U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/848,272, filed May 15, 2019, U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/823,455, filed Mar. 25, 2019, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 16/593,785, filed Oct. 4, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,799,614, which claims priority benefit of U.S. provisional application Nos. 62/742,188, filed Oct. 5, 2018; 62/756,925, filed Nov. 7, 2018; U.S. 62/756,955 filed Nov. 7, 2018; U.S. 62/756,977, filed Nov. 7, 2018; U.S. No. 62/756,993, filed Nov. 7, 2018; U.S. 62/792,282, filed Jan. 14, 2019; U.S. 62/795,527, filed Jan. 22, 2019; U.S. 62/823,455, filed Mar. 25, 2019; and U.S. 62/848,272, filed May 15, 2019, the disclosures of all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

The instant application contains a Sequence Listing which has been submitted on the filing date of Mar. 25, 2020 via EFS-Web and is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Said Sequence Listing, created on Mar. 25, 2020, is named 4772-108_ST25. TXT and is 87 kilobytes in size.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (“UNOS”), every ten minutes, someone is added to the national transplant waiting list, and nearly 20 people die each day waiting for a transplant. As of March 2020, there were about 112,385 people in need of a lifesaving organ transplant in the United States, with only about 19,000 donors identified and about 39,000 transplants performed in 2019 (data from the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS)). The need for specific organs in the United States is as follows:

Organ Candidates in Need Kidney 102,730 Liver 12,926 Pancreas 879 Kidney/Pancreas 1,820 Heart 3,702 Lung 1,283 Heart/Lung 52 Intestine 238 Total 124,630

Over the past 5 years, from 2014 through 2019, an average of about 6,400 candidates died each year while on the waiting list and without receiving an organ transplant. About the same number were not able to receive a long-awaited transplant because they were too sick to receive a transplant for the requisite surgery. While the rate of divergence between available donors and unmet need of recipients has been improved marginally, this disparity has continued to present day and remains considerable; the supply remains disastrously inadequate. Of course, the patients in need are awaiting for organs from human donors, which would represent the transplantation of organs from one species to another (allotransplantation).

Allotransplantation presents many significant multifaceted problems, involving safety, logistical, ethical, legal, institutional, and cultural complications. From a safety perspective, allogeneic tissues from human donors carry significant infectious disease risks. For example some in the transplantation field have report that “[human] cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the single most important infectious agent affecting recipients of organ transplants, with at least two-thirds of these patients having CMV infection after transplantation.” Denner J (2018) Reduction of the survival time of pig xenotransplants by porcine cytomegalovirus. Virology Journal, 15(1): 171; Rubin RH (1990) Impact of cytomegalovirus infection on organ transplant recipients. Reviews of Infectious Diseases, 12 Suppl 7:S754-766.

Regulations regarding tissue transplants include criteria for donor screening and testing for adventitious agents, as well as strict regulations that govern the processing and distribution of tissue grafts. The transmission of viruses has occurred as a result of allotransplantation. Exogenous retroviruses (Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1), Human T-cell leukemia virus type 2 (HTLV-2), and Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have been transmitted by human tissues during organ and cell transplantation, as have viruses such as human cytomegalovirus, and even rabies. Due to technical and timing constraints surrounding organ viability and post-mortem screening, absolute testing is hindered, and this risk cannot be eliminated.

Immunological disparities between recipient and donor prevent graft-survival for extended durations, without immunosuppressive regimens that pose their own set of complications and additional risks. When a patient receives an organ from a (non-self) donor (living or deceased), the recipient's immune system will recognize the transplant as foreign. This recognition will cause their immune system to mobilize and “reject” the organ unless concomitant medications that suppress the immune system's natural processes are utilized. The response to an allogeneic skin graft is a potent immune response involving engagement of both the innate and adaptive immune systems. Abbas A K, Lichtman A H H, Pillai S (2017) Cellular and Molecular Immunology.

With regard to the use of immunosuppressants, immunosuppressive drugs prolong survival of the transplanted graft in acute and chronic rejection schemas. However, they leave patients vulnerable to infections from even the most routine of pathogens and require continued use for life but expose the patient to an increased risk of infection, even cancer, immunosuppressant can blunt the natural immunological processes; unfortunately, these medications are often a lifelong requirement after organ transplantation and increase recipient susceptibility to otherwise routine pathogens. While these drugs allow transplant recipients to tolerate the presence of foreign organs, they also increase the risk of infectious disease and symptoms associated with a compromised immune system, as a broad array of organisms may be transmitted with human allografts.” Fishman J A, Greenwald M A, Grossi P A (2012) Transmission of Infection With Human Allografts: Essential Considerations in Donor Screening. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 55(5):720-727.

Logistically, numerous factors must be considered prior to a successful organ donation and transplant procedure. Blood type and other medical factors must be evaluated for every donated organ, but further, each organ type presents unique characteristics that also must be weighed, such as post-mortem ischemia, immunological compatibility, patient location, and institutional capabilities.

For these patients, and the millions not included in these statistics who also would benefit significantly from tissue transplants such as cornea or pancreatic islet cells, some in the field have confirmed that “allotransplantation will never prove to be a sufficient source.” Ekser B, Cooper D K C, Tector A J (2015) The Need for Xenotransplantation as a Source of Organs and Cells for Clinical Transplantation. International journal of surgery (London, England), 23(0 0): 199-204.

Despite such drawbacks, organ transplantation is unquestionably the preferred therapy for most patients with end stage organ failure, in large part due to a lack of viable alternatives. However, the advent of organ transplantation as a successful life-saving therapeutic intervention, juxtaposed against the paucity of organs available to transplant, unfortunately places medical professionals in an ideologically vexing position of having to decide who lives and who dies. Ultimately, alternative and adjunct treatment options that would minimize the severe shortcomings of allotransplant materials while providing the same mechanism of action that makes them so effective would be of enormous benefit to patients worldwide.

The urgent need for organs and other transplantation tissue generally, including for temporary therapies while more permanent organs or other tissue are located and utilized, has led to investigation into utilization of organs, cells and tissue from non-human sources, including other animals for temporary and/or permanent xenotransplantation.

Xenotransplantation, such as the transplantation of a non-human animal organ into a human recipient, has the potential to reduce the shortage of organs available for transplant, potentially helping thousands of people worldwide. Swine have been considered a potential non-human source of organs, tissue and/or cells for use in human xenotransplantation given that their size and physiology are compatible with humans. However, xenotransplantation using standard, unmodified pig tissue into a human or other primate is accompanied by rejection of the transplanted tissue.

Wild type swine organs would evoke rejection by the human immune system upon transplantation into a human where natural human antibodies target epitopes on the swine cells, causing rejection and failure of the transplanted organs, cells or tissue. The rejection may be a cellular rejection (lymphocyte mediated) or humoral (antibody mediated) rejection including but not limited to hyperacute rejection, an acute rejection, a chronic rejection, may involve survival limiting thrombocytopenia coagulopathy and an acute humoral xenograft reaction (AHXR). Other roadblocks with respect to swine to human xenotransplantation include risks of cross-species transmission of disease or parasites.

One cause of hyperacute rejection results from the expression of alpha-1,3-galactosyltransferase (“alpha-1,3-GT”) in porcine cells, which causes the synthesis of alpha-1,3-galactose epitopes. Except for humans, apes and Old World monkeys, most mammals carry glycoproteins on their cell surfaces that contain galactose alpha 1,3-galactose (see, e.g., Galili et al., “Man, apes, and old world monkeys differ from other mammals in the expression of α-galactosyl epitopes on nucleated cells,” J. Biol. Chem. 263: 17755-17762 (1988). Humans, apes and Old World monkeys have a naturally occurring anti-alpha gal antibody that is produced and binds to glycoproteins and glycolipids having galactose alpha-1,3 galactose (see, e.g., Cooper et al., “Genetically engineered pigs,” Lancet 342:682-683 (1993)).

Accordingly, when natural type swine products are utilized in xenotransplantation, human antibodies will be invoked to confront the foreign alpha-1,3-galactose epitopes, and hyperacute rejection normally follows. Beyond alpha-1,3-GT, swine cells express multiple genes which are not found in human cells. These include, but are not limited to, Neu5GC, and β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase (B4GALNT2). Antibodies to the α-Gal, Neu5GC, β1,4-N and Sda-like antigens are present in human blood prior to implantation of xeno-tissue, and are involved in the intense and immediate antibody-mediated rejection of implanted tissue.

Additionally pig cells express Class I and Class II SLAs on endothelial cells. The SLA cross-reacting antibodies contribute to the intense and immediate rejection of the implanted porcine tissue. SLA antigens may also be involved with the recipient's T-cell mediated immune response. Porcine SLAs may include, but are not limited to, antigens encoded by the SLA-1, SLA-2, SLA-3, SLA-4, SLA-5, SLA-6, SLA-8, SLA-9, SLA-11 and SLA-12 loci. Porcine Class II SLAs include antigens encoded by the SLA-DQ and SLA-DR loci.

Many attempts have been made by others to modify swine to serve as a source for xenotransplantation products, however such attempts have not yielded a successful swine model to date. Such commercial, academic and other groups have focused on interventions, gene alterations, efforts to induce tolerance through chimerism, inclusion of transgenes, concomitant use of exogenous immunosuppressive medications aimed to reduce the recipients' natural immunologic response(s) and other approaches. These groups have sought to create a “one size fits all” source animal aiming to create one, standardized source animal for all recipients.

Specifically, certain groups have focused on creating transgenic swine free of PERV and utilizing transgenic bone marrow for therapy (see, e.g., eGenesis, Inc. PCT/US2018/028539); creating transgenic swine utilizing stem cell scaffolding (see, e.g., United Therapeutics/Revivicor [US20190111180A1]); mixed chimerism and utilizing transgenic bone marrow for therapy to tolerize patient T-cells (see, e.g., Columbia University [US20180070564A1]). These “downstream” approaches—post recognition by the human immune system—have not succeeded in producing swine that produce products suitable for prolonged use in xenotransplantation or that survive the above-referenced transgenic and other alterations.

In contrast to the above-referenced approaches, the present invention achieves a “patient-specific” solution by modifying the genome of donor swine cells to escape detection from the human immune system in the first instance, avoiding the immune cascade that follows when a patient's T-cells and antibodies are primed to destroy foreign material. This “upstream” approach is achieved through, in one aspect, specific combinations of minimal genetic alterations that render the donor animal's cells, tissues, and organs tolerogenic when transplanted into a human without sacrificing the animal's immune function. The present invention therefore addresses long-felt but unmet need for translating the science of xenotransplantation into a clinical reality.

This “upstream” approach is achieved through, in one aspect, specific combinations of minimal genetic alterations that render the donor animal's cells, tissues, and organs tolerogenic when transplanted into a human without sacrificing the animal's immune function. The present invention therefore addresses long-felt but unmet need for translating the science of xenotransplantation into a clinical reality.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, the present disclosure includes a biological system for generating and preserving a repository of personalized, humanized transplantable cells, tissues, and organs for transplantation, wherein the biological system is biologically active and metabolically active, the biological system comprising genetically reprogrammed cells, tissues, and organs in a non-human animal for transplantation into a human recipient. For example, the non-human animal is a genetically reprogrammed swine for xenotransplantation of cells, tissue, and/or an organ isolated from the genetically reprogrammed swine, the genetically reprogrammed swine comprising a nuclear genome that has been reprogrammed to replace a plurality of nucleotides in a plurality of exon regions of a major histocompatibility complex of a wild-type swine with a plurality of synthesized nucleotides from a human captured reference sequence. In one aspect, cells of said genetically reprogrammed swine do not present one or more surface glycan epitopes selected from alpha-Gal, Neu5Gc, and SDa. Further, genes encoding alpha-1,3 galactosyltransferase, cytidine monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase (CMAH), and β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase are altered such that the genetically reprogrammed swine lacks functional expression of surface glycan epitopes encoded by those genes. In some aspects, the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of: i) at least one of the wild-type swine's SLA-1, SLA-2, and SLA-3 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C, respectively, of the human captured reference sequence; and ii) at least one the wild-type swine's SLA-6, SLA-7, and SLA-8 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G, respectively, of the human captured reference sequence; and iii) at least one of the wild-type swine's SLA-DR and SLA-DQ with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of HLA-DR and HLA-DQ, respectively, of the human captured reference sequence. In some aspects, the reprogrammed genome comprises at least one of A-C:

-   -   A) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome comprises         site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon         regions of the wild-type swine's β2-microglobulin with         nucleotides from orthologous exons of a known human         β2-microglobulin from the human captured reference sequence;     -   B) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome comprises a         polynucleotide that encodes a polypeptide that is a humanized         beta 2 microglobulin (hB2M) polypeptide sequence that is at         least 95% identical to the amino acid sequence of beta 2         microglobulin glycoprotein expressed by the human captured         reference genome;     -   C) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome has been         reprogrammed such that, at the swine's endogenous         β2-microglobulin locus, the nuclear genome has been reprogrammed         to comprise a nucleotide sequence encoding β2-microglobulin         polypeptide of the human recipient. Further, in some aspects,         the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome has been reprogrammed such         that the genetically reprogrammed swine lacks functional         expression of the wild-type swine's endogenous β2-microglobulin         polypeptides. Further, the reprogramming does not introduce any         frameshifts or frame disruptions.

In other aspects, the present disclosure includes a method of preparing a genetically reprogrammed swine comprising a nuclear genome that lacks functional expression of surface glycan epitopes selected from alpha-Gal, Neu5Gc, and SDa and is genetically reprogrammed to express a humanized phenotype of a human captured reference sequence comprising:

-   -   a. obtaining a porcine fetal fibroblast cell, a porcine zygote,         a porcine Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (IPSC), or a porcine         germ-line cell;     -   b. genetically altering said cell in a) to lack functional         alpha-1,3 galactosyltransferase, cytidine         monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase (CMAH), and         β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase;     -   c. genetically reprogramming said cell in b) using clustered         regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas for         site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon         regions of: i) at least one of the wild-type swine's SLA-1,         SLA-2, and SLA-3 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon         region of HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C, respectively, of the human         captured reference sequence; and     -   ii) at least one the wild-type swine's SLA-6, SLA-7, and SLA-8         with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of HLA-E,         HLA-F, and HLA-G, respectively, of the human captured reference         sequence; and iii) at least one of the wild-type swine's SLA-DR         and SLA-DQ with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of         HLA-DR and HLA-DQ, respectively, of the human captured reference         sequence,     -   wherein intron regions of the wild-type swine's genome are not         reprogrammed, and wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises at         least one of A-C:     -   A) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome comprises         site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon         regions of the wild-type swine's β2-microglobulin with         nucleotides from orthologous exons of a known human         β2-microglobulin from the human captured reference sequence;     -   B) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome comprises a         polynucleotide that encodes a polypeptide that is a humanized         beta 2 microglobulin (hB2M) polypeptide sequence that is at         least 95% identical to beta 2 microglobulin expressed by the         human captured reference genome;     -   C) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome has been         reprogrammed such that the genetically reprogrammed swine lacks         functional expression of the wild-type swine's endogenous         β2-microglobulin polypeptides, wherein the reprogrammed swine         nuclear genome has been reprogrammed such that, at the swine's         endogenous β2-microglobulin locus, the nuclear genome has been         reprogrammed to comprise a nucleotide sequence encoding         β2-microglobulin polypeptide of the human recipient,     -   wherein said reprogramming does not introduce any frameshifts or         frame disruptions,     -   d. generating an embryo from the genetically reprogrammed cell         in c); and     -   e. transferring the embryo into a surrogate pig and growing the         transferred embryo in the surrogate pig.

In another aspect, the present disclosure includes a method of producing a donor swine tissue or organ for xenotransplantation, wherein cells of said donor swine tissue or organ are genetically reprogrammed to be characterized by a recipient-specific surface phenotype comprising:

-   -   a. obtaining a biological sample containing DNA from a         prospective human transplant recipient;     -   b. performing whole genome sequencing of the biological sample         to obtain a human capture reference sequence;     -   c. comparing the human capture reference sequence with the         wild-type genome of the donor swine at loci (i)-(v):         -   (i) exon regions encoding at least one of SLA-1, SLA-2, and             SLA-3;         -   (ii) exon regions encoding at least one of SLA-6, SLA-7, and             SLA-8;         -   (iii) exon regions encoding at least one of SLA-DR and             SLA-DQ;         -   (iv) one or more exons encoding beta 2 microglobulin (B2M);         -   (v) exon regions of SLA-MIC-2 gene and a gene encoding at             least one of PD-L1, CTLA-4, EPCR, TBM, and TFPI,     -   d. creating synthetic donor swine nucleotide sequences of 10 to         350 basepairs in length for one or more of said loci (i)-(v),         wherein said synthetic donor swine nucleotide sequences are at         least 95% identical to the human capture reference sequence at         orthologous loci (vi)-(x) corresponding to swine loci (i)-(vi),         respectively:         -   (vi) exon regions encoding at least one of HLA-A, HLA-B, and             HLA-C;         -   (vii) exon regions encoding at least one of HLA-E, HLA-F,             and HLA-G;         -   (viii) exon regions encoding at least one of HLA-DR and             HLA-DQ;         -   (ix) one or more exons encoding human beta 2 microglobulin             (hB2M);         -   (x) exon regions encoding at least one of MIC-A, MIC-B,             PD-L1, CTLA-4, EPCR, TBM, and TFPI from the human capture             reference sequence,     -   e. replacing nucleotide sequences in (i)-(v) with said synthetic         donor swine nucleotide sequences; and     -   f. obtaining the swine tissue or organ for xenotransplantation         from a genetically reprogrammed swine having said synthetic         donor swine nucleotide sequences.

In another aspect, the present disclosure includes a method of screening for off target edits or genome alterations in the genetically reprogrammed swine comprising a nuclear genome of the present disclosure including:

-   -   a. performing whole genome sequencing on a biological sample         containing DNA from a donor swine before performing genetic         reprogramming of the donor swine nuclear genome, thereby         obtaining a first whole genome sequence;     -   b. after reprogramming of the donor swine nuclear genome,         performing whole genome sequencing to obtain a second whole         genome sequence;     -   c. aligning the first whole genome sequence and the second whole         genome sequence to obtain a sequence alignment;     -   d. analyzing the sequence alignment to identify any mismatches         to the swine's genome at off-target sites.

In another aspect, the present disclosure includes a synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine MHC Class Ia, and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's SLA-3 with codons of HLA-C from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the SLA-3 and the HLA-C from the human capture reference sequence. In some aspects, the wild-type swine's SLA-1 and SLA-2 each comprise a stop codon.

In another aspect, the present disclosure includes a synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine MHC Class Ib, and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's SLA-6, SLA-7, and SLA-8 with codons of HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G, respectively, from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the SLA-6, SLA-7, and SLA-8 and the HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G, respectively, from the human capture reference sequence.

In another aspect, the present disclosure includes a synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine MHC Class II, and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's SLA-DQ with codons of HLA-DQ, respectively, from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the SLA-DQ and the HLA-DQ, respectively, from the human capture reference sequence, and wherein the wild-type swine's SLA-DR comprises a stop codon.

In another aspect, the present disclosure includes a synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine beta-2-microglobulin and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's beta-2-microglobulin with codons of beta-2-microglobulin from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's beta-2-microglobulin and the beta-2-microglobulin from the human capture reference sequence, wherein the synthetic nucleotide sequence comprises at least one stop codon in an exon region such that the synthetic nucleotide sequence lacks functional expression of the wild-type swine's β2-microglobulin polypeptides.

In another aspect, the present disclosure includes a synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine MIC-2, and reprogrammed at exon regions of the wild-type swine's MIC-2 with codons of MIC-A or MIC-B from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the MIC-2 and the MIC-A or the MIC-B from the human capture reference sequence.

In another aspect, the present disclosure includes a synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine CTLA-4, and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's CTLA-4 with codons of CTLA-4 from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's CTLA-4 and the CTLA-4 from the human capture reference sequence.

In another aspect, the present disclosure includes a synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine PD-L1 and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's PD-L1 with codons of PD-L1 from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's PD-L1 and the PD-L1 from the human capture reference sequence.

In another aspect, the present disclosure includes a synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine EPCR and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's EPCR with codons of EPCR from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's EPCR and the EPCR from the human capture reference sequence.

In another aspect, the present disclosure includes a synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine TBM and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's TBM with codons of TBM from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's TBM and the TBM from the human capture reference sequence.

In another aspect, the present disclosure includes a synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine TFPI and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's TFPI with codons of TFPI from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's TFPI and the TFPI from the human capture reference sequence.

In contrast to the above-referenced approaches, the present invention achieves a “patient-specific” solution by modifying the genome of donor swine cells to escape detection from the human immune system in the first instance, avoiding the immune cascade that follows when a patient's T-cells and antibodies are primed to destroy foreign material. This “upstream” approach is achieved through, in one aspect, minimal, modifications to the swine genome involving distinct combinations of disruptions (such as knocking out α1,3-galactosyltransferase (αGal), cytidine monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase (CMAH) and/or β1-4 N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase such that the donor swine cells do not express such on its cell surfaces), regulation of expression of certain genes (for example, CTLA-4 and PD-1), and replacement of specific sections of the swine genome with synthetically engineered sections based upon recipient human capture sequences (for example, in certain SLA sequences to regulate the swine's expression of, for example, MHC-I and MHC-II). The present invention therefore addresses long-felt but unmet need for translating the science of xenotransplantation into a clinical reality.

Such modifications result in the reduce the extent of, the causative, immunological disparities and associated, deleterious immune processes that result from the recognition of “non-self”, by selectively altering the extracellular antigens of the donor to increase the likelihood of acceptance of the transplant.

In certain aspects, the present disclosure centralizes (predicates) the creation of hypoimmunogenic and/or tolerogenic cells, tissues, and organs that does not necessitate the transplant recipients' prevalent and deleterious use of exogenous immunosuppressive drugs (or prolonged immunosuppressive regimens) following the transplant procedure to prolong the life-saving graft. This approach is countervailing to the existing and previous dogmatic approaches; instead of accepting that innate and immovable disparity between donor and recipient, and thus focusing on interventions, gene alterations, and/or concomitant exogenous immunosuppressive medications used as a method of reducing/eliminating/negatively-altering the recipients' naturally resulting immunologic response, shifting (if not reversing) the focus of the otherwise area of fundamental scientific dogma.

In certain other aspects, the present disclosure provides genetically modified, non-transgenic swine that are minimally altered. For example, in the present invention, certain distinct sequences appearing on the donor swine SLA comprising native base pairs are removed and replaced with a synthetic sequence comprising the same number of base pairs but reprogrammed based on the recipient's human capture sequence. This minimal alteration keeps other aspects of the native swine genome in place and does not disturb, for example, introns and other codons naturally existing in the swine genome.

In certain other aspects, the present invention provides swine with such and other modifications, created in a designated pathogen environment in accordance with the processes and methods provided herein.

In certain other aspects the products derived from such swine for xenotransplantation are minimally manipulated, viable, live cell, and capable of making an organic union with the transplant recipient, including, but not limited to, inducing vascularization and/or collagen generation in the transplant recipient.

In certain other aspects products derived from such source animals are preserved, including, but not limited to, through cryopreservation, in a manner that maintains viability and live cell characteristics of such products.

In certain other aspects, such products are for homologous use, i.e., the repair, reconstruction, replacement or supplementation of a recipient's organ, cell and/or tissue with a corresponding organ, cell and/or tissue that performs the same basic function or functions as the donor (e.g., swine skin is used as a transplant for human skin, swine kidney is used as a transplant for human kidney, swine liver is used as a transplant for human liver, swine nerve is used as a transplant for human nerve and so forth).

In certain other aspects, the present invention that the utilization of such products in xenotransplantation be performed with or without the need to use immunosuppressant drugs or therapies which inhibit or interfere with normal immune function.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form part of the disclosure, help illustrate various aspects of the present invention and, together with the description, further serve to describe the invention to enable a person skilled in the pertinent art to make and use the aspects disclosed herein. In the drawings, like reference numbers indicate identical or functionally similar elements.

FIG. 1 illustrates an image of human trophoblast and trophoblast cells.

FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a T Cell Receptor (TCR) binding MHC Class I and a peptide.

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates HLA Class I on the surface of a cell.

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a Cytotoxic T Cell (CD8+)-Target Cell Interaction.

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a Cytotoxic T Cell (CD4+)-Target Cell Interaction.

FIG. 6 schematically illustrates codominant expression of HLA genes and the position of HLA genes on human chromosome 6.

FIG. 7 is a table listing numbers of serological antigens, proteins, and alleles for human MHC Class I and Class II isotypes.

FIG. 8 schematically illustrates HLA Class I and Class II on the surface of a cell.

FIG. 9 shows the structure of MHC Class I (A) and Class II proteins (B). The two globular domains furthest from the plasma membrane that form the peptide binding region (PBR) are shaded in blue. The two Ig-like domains, including the β2-microglobulin, are shaded in grey.

FIG. 10 shows the HLA genomic loci map.

FIG. 11 schematically illustrates Human MHC Class I and Class II isotypes.

FIG. 12 shows the schematic molecular organization of the HLA Class I genes. Exons are represented by the rectangles and introns by lines.

FIG. 13 shows the schematic molecular organization of the HLA Class II genes. Exons are represented by the rectangles and introns by lines.

FIG. 14 showing composite genetic alteration design for “humanization” of extracellular porcine cell expression

FIG. 15 shows comparative genomic organization of the human and swine major histocompatibility complex (MHC) Class I region. The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) Class I map is adapted from Ref. [17] and the swine leukocyte antigen (SLA) Class I map is based only on one fully sequenced haplotype (Hp-1.1, H01) [4]. Note that not all the genes are shown here and the scale is approximate. The number and location of expressed SLA Class I genes may vary between haplotypes.

FIG. 16 shows comparative genomic organization of the human and swine major histocompatibility complex (MHC) Class II region. The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) Class II map is adapted from Ref. [17] and the swine leukocyte antigen (SLA) Class II map is based only on one fully sequenced haplotype (H01) [4]. Note that not all the genes are shown here and the scale is approximate. *The number and location of expressed HLA-DRB genes and pseudogenes may vary between haplotypes.

FIG. 17 shows a physical map of the SLA complex. Black boxes: loci containing MHC-related sequences. White boxes: loci without MHC-related sequences. From the long arm to the short arm of the chromosome, the order of the regions is Class II (II), Class III (III) and Class I (I).

FIG. 18 shows the schematic molecular organization of the SLA genes. Exons are represented by the gray ovals and introns by lines. Gene length is approximate to that found for the Hp-1.1 genome sequence.

FIG. 19 shows a side-by-side genomic analysis of the peptide sequences.

FIG. 20 shows the location and the length α1(exon 2) of SLA-DQA and β1(exon 2) of SLA-DQB1.

FIG. 21 shows a spreadsheet detailing nucleotide sequences of exons and introns of SLA-DQA and SLA-DQB1.

FIG. 22 shows SLA-DQ beta1 domain of Sus scrofa (wild boar).

FIG. 23 illustrates nomenclature of HLA alleles. Each HLA allele name has a unique number corresponding to up to four sets of digits separated by colons. The length of the allele designation is dependent on the sequence of the allele and that of its nearest relative. All alleles receive at least a four digit name, which corresponds to the first two sets of digits, longer names are only assigned when necessary. The digits before the first colon describe the type, which often corresponds to the serological antigen carried by an allotype. The next set of digits are used to list the subtypes, numbers being assigned in the order in which DNA sequences have been determined. Alleles whose numbers differ in the two sets of digits must differ in one or more nucleotide substitutions that change the amino acid sequence of the encoded protein. Alleles that differ only by synonymous nucleotide substitutions (also called silent or non-coding substitutions) within the coding sequence are distinguished by the use of the third set of digits. Alleles that only differ by sequence polymorphisms in the introns, or in the 5′ or 3′ untranslated regions that flank the exons and introns, are distinguished by the use of the fourth set of digits.

FIG. 24 shows the length of exons and introns in HLA-DQA

FIG. 25A shows nucleotide sequence library between recipient specific HLA-DQA and HLA-DQA acquired from database, FIG. 25B shows Nucleotide Sequence Library identifying complete divergence between HLA vs SLA(DQ-A, Exon 2), FIG. 25C shows Human Capture Reference Sequence for DQ-A1 for Three Patients, FIG. 25D shows Human Capture Reference Sequence for DQ-B1 for Three Patients, FIG. 25E shows Human Capture Reference Sequence for DR-A for Three Patients, FIG. 25F shows Human Capture Reference Sequence for DQR-B1 for Three Patients.

FIG. 26A shows example of Human Capture Reference Sequence (DQ-A1) for Three Patients, FIG. 26B shows example of Human Capture Reference Sequence (DQ-B1) for Three Patients, FIG. 26C shows example of Human Capture Reference Sequence (DR-A) for Three Patients, FIG. 26D shows example of Human Capture Reference Sequence (DR-B1) for Three Patients.

FIG. 27 shows the wild-type human beta-2 microglobulin protein and schematic molecular organization of the human B2M gene and swine B2M gene.

FIG. 28 shows comparison of amino acid sequences of exon 2 of human B2M vs exon 2 of swine B2M

FIG. 29 shows Phenotyping analysis of porcine alveolar macrophages (PAM). Cells were cultured in medium alone (control), or were activated for 72 hours with 100 ng/mL IFN-γ or loaded 30 μg/mL KLH for 24 hours. The cells were stained for SLA-DQ and marker is detected using anti mouse APC-conjugated polyclonal IgG secondary antibody. Data is presented as histograms of count (y axis) versus fluorescence intensity in log scale (x axis). Percentage of positive and negative cells for SLA-DQ for activated cells are shown on histograms.

FIGS. 30A-30B show SI values for BrdU ELISA. Proliferation response of three human CD4+ T cells (A) and PBMCs (B) to untreated and IFN-γ activated PAM cells (15K) after seven days incubation.

FIG. 31 shows a schematic depiction of a humanized porcine cell according to the present disclosure

FIGS. 32A-32B show SI values for BrdU ELISA. Proliferation response of three human CD4+ T cells (A) and PBMCs (B) to untreated and IFN-γ activated PAM cells (15K) after seven days incubation.

FIG. 33 shows schematic depiction of a humanized porcine cell according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 34 shows graph of proliferation of human plasma donors run on 3 separate days with WT 128-11 and Gal T-KO B-174 PBMCs

FIG. 35 shows NK cytotoxicity of two donors (upper panel: KH; lower panel: MS) against 13 271 cells transfected with HLA-E/A2 (left column) and HLA-E/B7 (right column) compared to the lysis of untransfected 13 271 cells. Results are depicted as percentage of specific lysis and were obtained at four different E:T ratios. Data are representative of three independent experiments. Open triangles represent HLA-E-transfected 13 271 cells, filled diamonds represent un-transfected 13 271 cells. (Forte, et al., 2005)

FIGS. 36A-36B show graphs of % cytotoxicity for each concentration (dilution) of plasma, and the results plotted in Prism. Based on the cytotoxicity curve, the required dilution for 50% kill (IC50) was determined.

FIG. 37 illustrates a source animal facility and corresponding designated pathogen free facilities, animals, and herds in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 38 illustrates an extracorporeal liver filter and circuit in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 39 illustrates a combination skin product in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 40A depicts POD-15. H&E, H&E, high power image depicts tissue viability with surface and follicular epithelial necrosis. FIG. 40B depicts POD-22 H&E, high power image demonstrating residual autograft (asterisks) with good overall viability. No surface epithelium and some surface necrosis noted, along with extensive fibrosis with infiltration into the autograft (arrows).

FIG. 41 depicts longitudinal progression of porcine split-thickness skin graft used as a temporary wound closure in treatment of full-thickness wound defects in a non-human primate recipient. Left: POD-0, xenotransplantation product at Wound Site 2. Right: POD-30, same xenotransplantation product at Wound Site 2.

FIG. 42 shows POD-30 histological images for: Top, Center: H&E, Low power image of wound site depicts complete epithelial coverage. Dotted line surrounds the residual xenotransplantation product.

FIG. 43A graphs the total serum IgM ELISA (μg/mL) for all four subjects (2001, 2002, 2101, 2102) during the course of the study. FIG. 43B graphs the total serum IgG ELISA (μg/mL) for all four subjects (2001, 2002, 2101, 2102) during the course of the study.

FIG. 44A graphs systemic concentrations of soluble CD40L as measured by Luminex 23-plex at POD-0, POD-7, POD-14, POD-21, and POD-30. FIG. 44B graphs systemic concentrations of TGF-alpha as measured by Luminex 23-plex at POD-0, POD-7, POD-14, POD-21, and POD-30. FIG. 44C graphs systemic concentrations of IL-12/23 (p40) as measured by Luminex 23-plex at POD-0, POD-7, POD-14, POD-21, and POD-30.

FIG. 45 illustrates a method for preparing a skin product in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 46 shows a cryovial used to store a xenotransplantation product.

FIG. 47 shows a shipping process of a xenotransplantation product.

FIG. 48 shows a secondary closure or container system for storing a xenotransplantation product at temperatures below ambient temperature, including, but not limited to, −150 degrees Celsius and other temperatures.

FIG. 49A depicts porcine split-thickness skin grafts at wound sites 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively from left to right at POD-12. FIG. 49B depicts porcine split-thickness skin grafts at wound site 4 at POD-12 (left) and POD-14 (right).

FIG. 50A graphs MTT reduction assays fresh vs. cryopreserved (7 years) in porcine tissue samples showing no statistical difference. FIG. 50B graphs MTT reduction assays heat deactivated vs. cryopreserved (7 years) in porcine tissue samples showing a statistically significant different in quantity of formazan produced.

FIGS. 51A-51G show images of a xenotransplantation product of the present disclosure for treatment of severe and extensive partial and full thickness burns in a human patient.

FIG. 52 shows a graph of proliferative response of human lymphocytes responder peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in the presence of mitomycin C treated porcine stimulator cells.

FIG. 53 shows anti-xenogeneic IgM (A) and IgG (B) antibody binding data relative to Median Fluorescence Intensities (MFI) for Xeno-001-00-1 patient sample at multiple time points, Pre, Day 7, Day 16, and Day 30. The data is shown for the plasma samples tested at 1:2 dilutions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While aspects of the subject matter of the present disclosure may be embodied in a variety of forms, the following description is merely intended to disclose some of these forms as specific examples of the subject matter encompassed by the present disclosure. Accordingly, the subject matter of this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the forms or aspects so described.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Methods and materials are described herein for use in the present invention; other, suitable methods and materials known in the art can also be used. The materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. All publications, patent applications, patents, sequences, database entries, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description and figures, and from the claims.

“Best alignment” or “optimum alignment” means the alignment for which the identity percentage determined as described below is the highest. Comparisons of sequences between two nucleic acid sequences are traditionally made by comparing these sequences after aligning them optimally, the said comparison being made by segment or by “comparison window” to identify and compare local regions for similar sequences. For the comparison, sequences may be optimally aligned manually, or by using alignment software, e.g., Smith and Waterman local homology algorithm (1981), the Neddleman and Wunsch local homology algorithm (1970), the Pearson and Lipman similarity search method (1988), and computer software using these algorithms (GAP, BESTFIT, BLAST P, BLAST N, FASTA and TFASTA in the Wisconsin Genetics Software Package, Genetics Computer Group, 575 Science Dr., Madison, Wis.). In some aspects, the optimum alignment is obtained using the BLAST program with the BLOSUM 62 matrix or software having similar functionality. The “identity percentage” between two sequences of nucleic acids or amino acids is determined by comparing these two optimally aligned sequences, the sequence of nucleic acids or amino acids to be compared possibly including additions or deletions from the reference sequence for optimal alignment between these two sequences. The identity percentage is calculated by determining the number of positions for which the nucleotide or the amino acid residue is identical between the two sequences, by dividing this number of identical positions by the total number of compared positions and multiplying the result obtained by 100 to obtain the identity percentage between these two sequences.

“Conservative,” and its grammatical equivalents as used herein include a conservative amino acid substitution, including substitution of an amino acid residue by another amino acid residue having a side chain R group with similar chemical properties (e.g., charge or hydrophobicity). Conservative amino acid substitutions may be achieved by modifying a nucleotide sequence so as to introduce a nucleotide change that will encode the conservative substitution. In general, a conservative amino acid substitution will not substantially change the functional properties of interest of a protein, for example, the ability of MHC I to present a peptide of interest. Examples of groups of amino acids that have side chains with similar chemical properties include aliphatic side chains such as glycine, alanine, valine, leucine, and isoleucine; aliphatic-hydroxyl side chains such as serine and threonine; amide-containing side chains such as asparagine and glutamine; aromatic side chains such as phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan; basic side chains such as lysine, arginine, and histidine; acidic side chains such as aspartic acid and glutamic acid; and, sulfur-containing side chains such as cysteine and methionine. Conservative amino acids substitution groups include, for example, valine/leucine/isoleucine, phenylalanine/tyrosine, lysine/arginine, alanine/valine, glutamate/aspartate, and asparagine/glutamine. One skilled in the art would understand that in addition to the nucleic acid residues encoding a human or humanized MHC I polypeptide and/or β2 microglobulin described herein, due to the degeneracy of the genetic code, other nucleic acid sequences may encode the polypeptide(s) of the invention. Therefore, in addition to a genetically modified non-human animal that comprises in its genome a nucleotide sequence encoding MHC I and/or β2 microglobulin polypeptide(s) with conservative amino acid substitutions, a non-human animal whose genome comprises a nucleotide sequence(s) that differs from that described herein due to the degeneracy of the genetic code is also provided.

“Conserved” and its grammatical equivalents as used herein include nucleotides or amino acid residues of a polynucleotide sequence or amino acid sequence, respectively, that are those that occur unaltered in the same position of two or more related sequences being compared. Nucleotides or amino acids that are relatively conserved are those that are conserved amongst more related sequences than nucleotides or amino acids appearing elsewhere in the sequences. Herein, two or more sequences are said to be “completely conserved” if they are 100% identical to one another. In some embodiments, two or more sequences are said to be “highly conserved” if they are at least 70% identical, at least 80% identical, at least 90% identical, or at least 95% identical, but less than 100% identical, to one another. In some embodiments, two or more sequences are said to be “conserved” if they are at least 30% identical, at least 40% identical, at least 50% identical, at least 60% identical, at least 70% identical, at least 80% identical, at least 90% identical, or at least 95% identical, but less than 100% identical, to one another. In some embodiments, two or more sequences are said to be “conserved” if they are about 30% identical, about 40% identical, about 50% identical, about 60% identical, about 70% identical, about 80% identical, about 90% identical, about 95% identical, about 98% identical, or about 99% identical to one another.

“Designated pathogen free,” and its grammatical equivalents as used herein include reference to animals, animal herds, animal products derived therefrom, and/or animal facilities that are free of one or more specified pathogens. Preferably, such “designated pathogen free” animals, animal herds, animal products derived therefrom, and/or animal facilities are maintained using well-defined routines of testing for such designated pathogens, utilizing proper standard operating procedures (SOPs) and practices of herd husbandry and veterinary care to assure the absence and/or destruction of such designated pathogens, including routines, testing, procedures, husbandry, and veterinary care disclosed and described herein. It will be further understood that as used herein the term “free,” and like terms when used in connection with “pathogen free” are meant to indicate that the subject pathogens are not present, not alive, not active, or otherwise not detectable by standard or other testing methods for the subject pathogens.

“Alter,” “altering,” “altered” and grammatical equivalents as used herein include any and/or all modifications to a gene including, but not limited to, deleting, inserting, silencing, modifying, reprogramming, disrupting, mutating, rearranging, increasing expression, knocking-in, knocking out, and/or any or all other such modifications or any combination thereof.

“Endogenous loci” and its grammatical equivalents as used herein include the natural genetic loci found in the animal to be transformed into the donor animal.

“Functional,” e.g., in reference to a functional polypeptide, and its grammatical equivalents as used herein include a polypeptide that retains at least one biological activity normally associated with the native protein. For example, in some embodiments of the invention, a replacement at an endogenous locus (e.g., replacement at an endogenous non-human MHC I, MHC II, and/or β2 microglobulin locus) results in a locus that fails to express a functional endogenous polypeptide. Likewise, the term “functional” as used herein in reference to functional extracellular domain of a protein, can refer to an extracellular domain that retains its functionality, e.g., in the case of MHC I, ability to bind an antigen, ability to bind a T cell co-receptor, etc. In some embodiments of the invention, a replacement at the endogenous MHC locus results in a locus that fails to express an extracellular domain (e.g., a functional extracellular domain) of an endogenous MHC while expressing an extracellular domain (e.g., a functional extracellular domain) of a human MHC.

“Genetic or molecular marker,” and their grammatical equivalents as used herein include polymorphic locus, i.e. a polymorphic nucleotide (a so-called single nucleotide polymorphism or SNP) or a polymorphic DNA sequence at a specific locus. A marker refers to a measurable, genetic characteristic with a fixed position in the genome, which is normally inherited in a Mendelian fashion, and which can be used for mapping of a trait of interest. Thus, a genetic marker may be a short DNA sequence, such as a sequence surrounding a single base-pair change, i.e. a single nucleotide polymorphism or SNP, or a long DNA sequence, such as microsatellites or Simple Sequence Repeats (SSRs). The nature of the marker is dependent on the molecular analysis used and can be detected at the DNA, RNA or protein level. Genetic mapping can be performed using molecular markers such as, but not limited to, RFLP (restriction fragment length polymorphisms; Botstein et al. (1980), Am J Hum Genet. 32:314-331; Tanksley et al. (1989), Bio/Technology 7:257-263), RAPD [random amplified polymorphic DNA; Williams et al. (1990), NAR 18:6531-6535], AFLP [Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism; Vos et al. (1995) NAR 23:4407-4414], SSRs or microsatellites [Tautz et al. (1989), NAR 17:6463-6471]. Appropriate primers or probes are dictated by the mapping method used.

“Improving” and its grammatical equivalents as used herein include any improvement recognized by one of skill in the art. For example, improving transplantation can mean lessening hyperacute rejection, which can encompass a decrease, lessening, or diminishing of an undesirable effect or symptom. In some aspects, a clinically relevant improvement is achieved.

“Locus” (loci plural) or “site” and their grammatical equivalents as used herein include a specific place or places on a chromosome where, for example, a gene, a genetic marker or a QTL is found.

“Minimally altered” and its grammatical equivalents as used herein include alteration of a donor animal genome including removing and replacing certain distinct sequences of native base pairs appearing on the donor animal's genome and replacing each such sequence with a synthetic sequence comprising the same number of base pairs, with no net change to the number of base pairs in the donor animal's genome, while not disturbing other aspects of the donor animal's native genome including, for example, introns and other codons naturally existing in the donor animal genome. For example, in the case of a swine as donor animal, a minimally altered swine can include specific alterations removing or deactivating certain SLA exons to regulate the donor swine cell's extracellular expression or non-expression of MHC Class II, Ia, and/or Ib; reprogramming certain native, naturally occurring swine cell SLA exons to regulate the swine cell's extracellular expression or non-expression of MHC Class II; conserving or otherwise not removing swine introns existing in or in the vicinity of the otherwise engineered sequences; increasing the expression of swine CTLA4 and PD-1; and removing or deactivating alpha-1,3 galactosyltransferase, cytidine monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase, and β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase.

“Minimally manipulated” and its grammatical equivalents as used herein include treatment of source animals, biological products derived from those source animals, and other biological products with minimal physical alteration of the related cells, organs or tissues such that such animals and products are substantially in their natural state.

“Ortholog,” “orthologous,” and their grammatical equivalents as used herein include a polynucleotide from one species that corresponds to a polynucleotide in another species, which has the same function as the gene or protein or QTL, but is (usually) diverged in sequence from the time point on when the species harboring the genes or quantitative trait loci diverged (i.e. the genes or quantitative trait loci evolved from a common ancestor by speciation).

“Quantitative trait locus (QTL)” and its grammatical equivalents as used herein include a stretch of DNA (such as a chromosome arm, a chromosome region, a nucleotide sequence, a gene, and the like) that is closely linked to a gene that underlies the trait in question. “QTL mapping” involves the creation of a map of the genome using genetic or molecular markers, like AFLP, RAPD, RFLP, SNP, SSR, and the like, visible polymorphisms and allozymes, and determining the degree of association of a specific region on the genome to the inheritance of the trait of interest. As the markers do not necessarily involve genes, QTL mapping results involve the degree of association of a stretch of DNA with a trait rather than pointing directly at the gene responsible for that trait. Different statistical methods are used to ascertain whether the degree of association is significant or not. A molecular marker is said to be “linked” to a gene or locus, if the marker and the gene or locus have a greater association in inheritance than would be expected from independent assortment, i.e. the marker and the locus co-segregate in a segregating population and are located on the same chromosome. “Linkage” refers to the genetic distance of the marker to the locus or gene (or two loci or two markers to each other). The closer the linkage, the smaller the likelihood of a recombination event taking place, which separates the marker from the gene or locus. Genetic distance (map distance) is calculated from recombination frequencies and is expressed in centiMorgans (cM) [Kosambi (1944), Ann. Eugenet. 12:172-175].

“Capture sequence” or “reference sequence” and their grammatical equivalents as used herein include a nucleic acid or amino acid sequence that has been obtained, sequenced or otherwise become known from a sample, animal (including humans), or population. For example, a capture sequence from a human patient is a “human patient capture sequence.” A capture sequence from a particular human population is a “human population-specific human capture sequence.” And a capture sequence from a human allele group is an “allele-group-specific human capture sequence.”

“Humanized” and its grammatical equivalents as used herein include embodiments wherein all or a portion of an endogenous non-human gene or allele is replaced by a corresponding portion of an orthologous human gene or allele. For example, in some embodiments, the term “humanized” refers to the complete replacement of the coding region (e.g., the exons) of the endogenous non-human MHC gene or allele or fragment thereof with the corresponding capture sequence of the human MHC gene or allele or fragment thereof, while the endogenous non-coding region(s) (such as, but not limited to, the promoter, the 5′ and/or 3′ untranslated region(s), enhancer elements, etc.) of the non-human animal is not replaced.

“Personalized” or “individualized,” and their grammatical equivalents as used herein, include a gene, allele, genome, proteome, cell, cell surface, tissue, or organ from a non-human animal which is adapted to the needs or special circumstances of an individual human recipient or a specific human recipient subpopulation.

“Reprogram,” “reprogrammed,” including in reference to “immunogenomic reprogramming,” and their grammatical equivalents as used herein, refer to the replacement or substitution of endogenous nucleotides in the donor animal with orthologous nucleotides based on a separate reference sequence, wherein frameshift mutations are not introduced by such reprogramming. In addition, reprogramming results in no net loss or net gain in the total number of nucleotides in the donor animal genome, or results in a net loss or net gain in the total number of nucleotides in the donor animal genome that is equal to no more than 1%, no more than 2%, no more than 3%, no more than 4%, no more than 5%, no more than 6%, no more than 7%, no more than 8%, no more than 9%, no more than 10%, no more than 12%, no more than 15%, or no more than 20% of the number of nucleotides in the separate reference sequence. In one example of “reprogramming,” an endogenous non-human nucleotide, codon, gene or fragment thereof is replaced with a corresponding synthetic nucleotide, codon, gene or fragment thereof based on a human capture sequence, through which the total number of base pairs in the donor animal sequence is equal to the total number of base pairs of the human capture sequence.

“Tolerogenic” and its grammatical equivalents as used herein include characteristics of an organ, cell, tissue, or other biological product that are tolerated by the reduced response by the recipient's immune system upon transplantation.

“Transgenic” and its grammatical equivalents as used herein, include donor animal genomes that have been modified to introduce non-native genes from a different species into the donor animal's genome at a non-orthologous, non-endogenous location such that the homologous, endogenous version of the gene (if any) is retained in whole or in part. “Transgene,” “transgenic,” and grammatical equivalents as used herein do not include reprogrammed genomes, knock-outs or other modifications as described and claimed herein. By way of example, “transgenic” swine include those having or expressing hCD46 (“human membrane cofactor protein,” or “MCP”), hCD55 (“human decay-accelerating factor,” “DAF”), human B2M (beta-2-microglobulin), and/or other human genes, achieved by insertion of human gene sequences at a non-orthologous, non-endogenous location in the swine genome without the replacement of the endogenous versions of those genes.

Immunogenomic Reprogrammed Swine

As disclosed herein, tolerogenic non-human animal cells, tissues and organs for several human Class I and/or Class II MHC molecules are provided.

The human immune response system is a highly complex and efficient defense system against invading organisms. T-cells are the primary effector cells involved in the cellular response. Just as antibodies have been developed as therapeutics, (TCRs), the receptors on the surface of the T-cells, which give them their specificity, have unique advantages as a platform for developing therapeutics. While antibodies are limited to recognition of pathogens in the blood and extracellular spaces or to protein targets on the cell surface, TCRs recognize antigens displayed by MHC molecules on the surfaces of cells (including antigens derived from intracellular proteins). Depending on the subtype of T-cells that recognize displayed antigen and become activated, TCRs and T-cells harboring TCRs participate in controlling various immune responses. For instance, helper T-cells are involved in regulation of the humoral immune response through induction of differentiation of B cells into antibody secreting cells. In addition, activated helper T-cells initiate cell-mediated immune responses by cytotoxic T-cells. Thus, TCRs specifically recognize targets that are not normally seen by antibodies and also trigger the T-cells that bear them to initiate wide variety of immune responses.

It will be understood, that T-cell recognizes an antigen presented on the surfaces of cells by means of the TCRs expressed on their cell surface. TCRs are disulfide-linked heterodimers, most consisting of a and (3 chain glycoproteins. T-cells use recombination mechanisms to generate diversity in their receptor molecules similar to those mechanisms for generating antibody diversity operating in B cells (Janeway and Travers, Immunobiology 1997). Similar to the immunoglobulin genes, TCR genes are composed of segments that rearrange during development of T-cells. TCR polypeptides consist of variable, constant, transmembrane and cytoplasmic regions. While the transmembrane region anchors the protein and the intracellular region participates in signaling when the receptor is occupied, the variable region is responsible for specific recognition of an antigen and the constant region supports the variable region-binding surface. The TCR α chain contains variable regions encoded by variable (V) and joining (J) segments only, while the β chain contains additional diversity (D) segments.

Major histocompatibility complex Class I (MHCI) and Class II (MHCII) molecules display peptides on antigen-presenting cell surfaces for subsequent T-cell recognition. See FIG. 2. Within the human population, allelic variation among the classical MHCI and II gene products is the basis for differential peptide binding, thymic repertoire bias and allograft rejection. MHC molecules are cell-surface glycoproteins that are central to the process of adaptive immunity, functioning to capture and display peptides on the surface of antigen-presenting cells (APCs). MHC Class I (MHCI) molecules are expressed on most cells, bind endogenously derived peptides with sizes ranging from eight to ten amino acid residues and are recognized by CD8 cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTL). See FIG. 3 and FIG. 4. On the other hand, MHC Class II (MHCII) are present only on specialized APCs, bind exogenously derived peptides with sizes varying from 9 to 22 residues, and are recognized by CD4 helper T-cells. See FIG. 5. These differences indicate that MHCI and MHCII molecules engage two distinct arms of the T-cell-mediated immune response, the former targeting invasive pathogens such as viruses for destruction by CD8 CTLs, and the latter inducing cytokine-based inflammatory mediators to stimulate CD4 helper T-cell activities including B-cell activation, maturation and antibody production. In some aspects, the biological product of the present disclosure is not recognized by CD8+ T cells, do not bind anti-HLA antibodies, and are resistant to NK-mediated lysis.

The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system or complex is a gene complex encoding the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins in humans. These cell-surface proteins are responsible for the regulation of the immune system in humans. The HLA gene complex resides on a 3 Mbp stretch within chromosome 6p21. See FIG. 6. HLA genes are highly polymorphic, which means that they have many different alleles, allowing them to fine-tune the adaptive immune system. See FIG. 7. The proteins encoded by certain genes are also known as antigens, as a result of their historic discovery as factors in organ transplants. Different classes have different functions. See FIG. 8 and FIG. 9.

The HLA segment is divided into three regions (from centromere to telomere), Class II, Class III and Class I. See FIG. 10. Classical Class I and Class II HLA genes are contained in the Class I and Class II regions, respectively, whereas the Class III locus bears genes encoding proteins involved in the immune system but not structurally related to MHC molecules. The classical HLA Class I molecules are of three types, HLA-A, HLA-B and HLA-C. Only the a chains of these mature HLA Class I molecules are encoded within the Class I HLA locus by the respective HLA-A, HLA-B and HLA-C genes. See FIG. 11. In contrast, the beta-2 microglobulin β2m chain encoded by the β2m gene is located on chromosome 15. The classical HLA Class II molecules are also of three types (HLA-DP, HLA-DQ and HLA-DR), with both the α and β chains of each encoded by a pair of adjacent loci. In addition to these classical HLA Class I and HLA Class II genes, the human MHC locus includes a long array of HLA pseudogenes as well as genes encoding non-classical MHCI and MHCII molecules. HLA-pseudogenes are an indication that gene duplication is the main driving force for HLA evolution, whereas non-classical MHCI and MHCII molecules often serve a restricted function within the immune system quite distinct from that of antigen presentation to αβ TCRs.

Aside from the genes encoding the antigen-presenting proteins, there are a large number of other genes, many involved in immune function, located on the HLA complex. Diversity of HLAs in the human population is one aspect of disease defense, and, as a result, the chance of two unrelated individuals with identical HLA molecules on all loci is extremely low. HLA genes have historically been identified as a result of the ability to successfully transplant organs between HLA-similar individuals.

Class I MHC molecules are expressed on all nucleated cells, including tumor cells. They are expressed specifically on T and B lymphocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells and neutrophils, among other cells, and function to display peptide fragments (typically 8-10 amino acids in length) on the surface to CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). CTLs are specialized to kill any cell that bears an MHC I-bound peptide recognized by its own membrane-bound TCR. When a cell displays peptides derived from cellular proteins not normally present (e.g., of viral, tumor, or other non-self origin), such peptides are recognized by CTLs, which become activated and kill the cell displaying the peptide.

As shown in FIG. 12, MHC Class I protein comprises an extracellular domain (which comprises three domains: α₁, α₂ and α₃), a transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic tail. The α₁ and α₂ domains form the peptide-binding cleft, while the α₃ interacts with β2-microglobulin. Class I molecules consist of two chains: a polymorphic α-chain (sometimes referred to as heavy chain) and a smaller chain called β2-microglobulin (also known as light chain), which is generally not polymorphic. These two chains form a non-covalent heterodimer on the cell surface. The α-chain contains three domains (α1, α2 and α3). As illustrated in FIG. 12, Exon 1 of the α-chain gene encodes the leader sequence, exons 2 and 3 encode the α1 and α2 domains, exon 4 encodes the α3 domain, exon 5 encodes the transmembrane domain, and exons 6 and 7 encode the cytoplasmic tail. The α-chain forms a peptide-binding cleft involving the α1 and α2 domains (which resemble Ig-like domains) followed by the α3 domain, which is similar to β2-microglobulin.

β2 microglobulin is a non-glycosylated 12 kDa protein; one of its functions is to stabilize the MHC Class I α-chain. Unlike the α-chain, the β2 microglobulin does not span the membrane. The human β2 microglobulin locus is on chromosome 15 and consists of 4 exons and 3 introns. Circulating forms of β2 microglobulin are present in serum, urine, and other body fluids; non-covalently MHC I-associated β2 microglobulin can be exchanged with circulating (32 microglobulin under physiological conditions.

As shown in FIG. 13, MHC Class II protein comprises an extracellular domain (which comprises three domains: α₁, α₂, β₁, and β₁), a transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic tail. The α₁ and β1 domains form the peptide-binding cleft, while the α₁ and β1 interacts with the transmembrane domain.

In addition to the aforementioned antigens, the Class I antigens include other antigens, termed non-classical Class I antigens, in particular the antigens HLA-E, HLA-F and HLA-G; this latter, in particular, is expressed by the extravillous trophoblasts of the normal human placenta in addition to HLA-C.

Cell Phenotype

Referring generally to FIG. 1, Dr. Peter Medawar profoundly said “the success of human pregnancy, where the fetus resides comfortably within the maternal uterus for 9 months, defies the precepts of immunology.” Paraphrasing, he observed that the most common, successful transplant on earth is pregnancy.

The trophoblast expression of cell surface markers is well characterized, and by replicating such phenotype in the porcine cell where appropriate and necessary to retain, critical and desired cellular function can be obtained. According to literature, extravillous trophoblast cells express HLA Class Ia molecule (HLA-C) and all of HLA Class Ib molecules. Compared to HLA-E and HLA-G, both of which are highly expressed on extravillous trophoblast cells, HLA-C and HLA-F are weakly expressed. See, e.g., Djurisic et al., “HLA Class Ib Molecules and Immune Cells in Pregnancy and Preeclampsia,” Frontiers in Immunology, Vol 5, Art. 652 (2014). In addition to MHC molecules, PD-L1 is upregulated in trophoblastic cells in normal pregnancy, particularly in syncytiotrophoblast cells. HLA Class II molecules are not present on trophoblasts, which may facilitate survival and detection of the embryo in the presence of maternal lymphocytes. See, e.g., Veras et al., “PD-L1 Expression in Human Placentas and gestational Trophoblastic Diseases,” Int. J. Gynecol. Pathol. 36(2): 146-153 (2017).

The present invention provides a method of creating a tolerogenic xenotransplantation swine cell that mimics the extracellular configuration of a human trophoblast. This method includes, but is not limited to, removing or deactivating certain SLA exons to regulate the swine cell's extracellular expression or non-expression of MHC Class II, Ia, and/or Ib; reprogramming certain native, naturally occurring swine cell SLA exons to regulate the swine cell's extracellular expression or non-expression of MHC Class II; conserving or otherwise not removing swine introns existing in or in the vicinity of the otherwise engineered sequences; increasing the expression of swine CTLA4 and PD-1; and removing or deactivating alpha-1,3 galactosyltransferase, cytidine monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase, and β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase. Such removal, reprogramming, and modification to cause such increase of expression, and other engineered aspects of a swine genome, to create a tolerogenic xenotransplantation swine cell that mimics the extracellular configuration of a human trophoblast, is described as follows.

The former and current attempts to this unmet clinical need has precisely followed the classic medical dogma of “one-size fits all”. We refer to this as the “downstream” approach—which must contend with addressing all of the natural immune processes in sequence. Instead of adopting this limited view, the present invention takes a “patient-specific” solution to dramatically improve clinical outcome measures. The latter, our approach, we term the “upstream” approach—one which represents the culmination of unfilled scientific effort into a coordinated translational effort. The central theorem of our approach is countervailing to the existing and previous dogmatic approaches. The “downstream” approach accepts the innate and immovable disparity between donor and recipient, and focuses on interventions, gene alterations, and/or concomitant exogenous immunosuppressive medications used as a method of reducing/eliminating/negatively-altering the recipients' naturally resulting immunologic response. In contrast, we intentionally choose to reverse the focus of the otherwise area of fundamental scientific dogma. Rather than accept the immunological incompatibilities between the donor and recipient, specifically (but not limited to) those mismatches of the Major Histocompatibility Complex(es), we alter these catalytic antigens at the source, thereby eliminating all of the precipitating mechanisms that are the causative effectors of cell, tissue, and organ rejection between donor and recipient. This approach applies beyond the field of xenotransplantation including, but not limited to, the fields of genetics, obstetrics, infectious disease, oncology, agriculture, animal husbandry, food industry and other areas.

The present disclosure embodies the above modification in creating a non-transgenic genetically reprogrammed swine for xenotransplantation, wherein the MHC surface characterization of the swine mimic that of the recipient's trophoblast, wherein the immune response from the xenotransplantation is significantly reduced. The human extravillous trophoblast cells express HLA-C, HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G, but not HLA-A, HLA-B, HLA-DQ and HLA-DR. As such, the current embodiment combines the unique MHC surface characterization of human trophoblast with site-directed mutagenic substitutions to minimize or remove the immune response associated with xenotransplantation while minimizing off target effects on the native donor swine's SLA/MHC gene.

The human immune response system is a highly complex and efficient defense system against invading organisms. T-cells are the primary effector cells involved in the cellular response. Just as antibodies have been developed as therapeutics, (TCRs), the receptors on the surface of the T-cells, which give them their specificity, have unique advantages as a platform for developing therapeutics. While antibodies are limited to recognition of pathogens in the blood and extracellular spaces or to protein targets on the cell surface, TCRs recognize antigens displayed by MHC molecules on the surfaces of cells (including antigens derived from intracellular proteins). Depending on the subtype of T-cells that recognize displayed antigen and become activated, TCRs and T-cells harboring TCRs participate in controlling various immune responses. For instance, helper T-cells are involved in regulation of the humoral immune response through induction of differentiation of B cells into antibody secreting cells. In addition, activated helper T-cells initiate cell-mediated immune responses by cytotoxic T-cells. Thus, TCRs specifically recognize targets that are not normally seen by antibodies and also trigger the T-cells that bear them to initiate wide variety of immune responses.

As shown in FIG. 2, a T-cell recognizes an antigen presented on the surfaces of cells by means of the TCRs expressed on their cell surface. TCRs are disulfide-linked heterodimers, most consisting of α and β chain glycoproteins. T-cells use recombination mechanisms to generate diversity in their receptor molecules similar to those mechanisms for generating antibody diversity operating in B cells (Janeway and Travers, Immunobiology 1997). Similar to the immunoglobulin genes, TCR genes are composed of segments that rearrange during development of T-cells. TCR polypeptides consist of variable, constant, transmembrane and cytoplasmic regions. While the transmembrane region anchors the protein and the intracellular region participates in signaling when the receptor is occupied, the variable region is responsible for specific recognition of an antigen and the constant region supports the variable region-binding surface. The TCR α chain contains variable regions encoded by variable (V) and joining (J) segments only, while the β chain contains additional diversity (D) segments.

A TCR recognizes a peptide antigen presented on the surfaces of antigen presenting cells in the context of self-Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules. Two different types of MHC molecules recognized by TCRs are involved in antigen presentation, the Class I MHC and class II MHC molecules. Mature T-cell subsets are defined by the co-receptor molecules they express. These co-receptors act in conjunction with TCRs in the recognition of the MHC-antigen complex and activation of the T-cell. Mature helper T-cells recognize antigen in the context of MHC Class II molecules and are distinguished by having the co-receptor CD4. Cytotoxic T-cells recognize antigen in the context of MHC Class I determinants and are distinguished by having the CD8 co-receptor.

In the human, MHC molecules are referred to as HLA, an acronym for human leukocyte antigens, and are encoded by the chromosome 6p21.3-located HLA region.8,9 The HLA segment is divided into three regions (from centromere to telomere), Class II, Class III and Class I. See FIG. 10. Classical Class I and Class II HLA genes are contained in the Class I and Class II regions, respectively, whereas the Class III locus bears genes encoding proteins involved in the immune system but not structurally related to MHC molecules. The classical HLA Class I molecules are of three types, HLA-A, HLA-B and HLA-C. Only the a chains of these mature HLA Class I molecules are encoded within the Class I HLA locus by the respective HLA-A, HLA-B and HLA-C genes. See FIG. 11. In contrast, the beta-2 microglobulin β2m chain encoded by the β2m gene is located on chromosome 15. The classical HLA Class II molecules are also of three types (HLA-DP, HLA-DQ and HLA-DR), with both the α and β chains of each encoded by a pair of adjacent loci. In addition to these classical HLA Class I and HLA Class II genes, the human MHC locus includes a long array of HLA pseudogenes as well as genes encoding non-classical MHCI and MHCII molecules. HLA-pseudogenes are an indication that gene duplication is the main driving force for HLA evolution, whereas non-classical MHCI and MHCII molecules often serve a restricted function within the immune system quite distinct from that of antigen presentation to αβ TCRs.

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes show incredible sequence diversity in the human population. For example, there are >4,000 known alleles for the HLA-B gene alone. The genetic diversity in HLA genes in which different alleles have different efficiencies for presenting different antigens is believed to be a result of evolution conferring better population-level resistance against the wide range of different pathogens to which humans are exposed. This genetic diversity also presents problems during xenotransplantation where the recipient's immune response is the most important factor dictating the outcome of engraftment and survival after transplantation.

In humans, the classical Class I genes, termed HLA-A, HLA-B and HLA-C, consist of two chains: a polymorphic α-chain (sometimes referred to as heavy chain) and a smaller chain called β2-microglobulin (also known as light chain), which is generally not polymorphic. These two chains form a non-covalent heterodimer on the cell surface. As shown in FIG. 12, the α-chain contains three domains (α1, α2 and α3). Exon 1 of the α-chain gene encodes the leader sequence, exons 2 and 3 encode the α1 and α2 domains, exon 4 encodes the α3 domain, exon 5 encodes the transmembrane domain, and exons 6 and 7 encode the cytoplasmic tail. The α-chain forms a peptide-binding cleft involving the α1 and α2 domains (which resemble Ig-like domains) followed by the α3 domain, which is similar to β2-microglobulin.

β2 microglobulin is a non-glycosylated 12 kDa protein; one of its functions is to stabilize the MHC Class I α-chain. Unlike the α-chain, the β2 microglobulin does not span the membrane. The human β2 microglobulin locus is on chromosome 15 and consists of 4 exons and 3 introns. β2-microglobulin-bound protein complexes undertake key roles in various immune system pathways, including the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), cluster of differentiation 1 (CD1) protein, non-classical major histocompatibility complex (MHC), and well-known MHC Class I molecules.

Class I MHC molecules are expressed on all nucleated cells, including tumor cells. They are expressed specifically on T and B lymphocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells and neutrophils, among other cells, and function to display peptide fragments (typically 8-10 amino acids in length) on the surface to CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). CTLs are specialized to kill any cell that bears an MHC I-bound peptide recognized by its own membrane-bound TCR. When a cell displays peptides derived from cellular proteins not normally present (e.g., of viral, tumor, or other non-self origin), such peptides are recognized by CTLs, which become activated and kill the cell displaying the peptide.

MHC loci exhibit the highest polymorphism in the genome. All Class I and II MHC genes can present peptide fragments, but each gene expresses a protein with different binding characteristics, reflecting polymorphisms and allelic variants. Any given individual has a unique range of peptide fragments that can be presented on the cell surface to B and T cells in the course of an immune response.

In addition to the aforementioned antigens, the Class I antigens include other antigens, termed non-classical Class I antigens, in particular the antigens HLA-E, HLA-F and HLA-G; this latter, in particular, is expressed by the extravillous trophoblasts of the normal human placenta in addition to HLA-C.

MHC Class II protein comprises an extracellular domain (which comprises three domains: α1, α2, β1, and β1), a transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic tail as shown in FIG. 13. The α2 and β2 domains form the peptide-binding cleft, while the α1 and β1 interacts with the transmembrane domain.

With respect to the MHC-I proteins, the current disclosure either inactivate, or where necessary to retain the function of the “find and replace” orthologous SLA proteins with HLA analogs that would result in minimal immune recognition. In some aspects, silencing the genes which encode and are responsible for the expression of SLA-1 removes the highly-problematic and polymorphic HLA-A analog. Similarly, inactivation or complete removal of genes associated with SLA-2 would reduce the burden imposed by mismatched HLA-B proteins. This would, at the cell surface interface, appear to the human recipient's T cells as a HLA-A and HLA-B negative cell. With respect to the last of the classical MHC Class I proteins, HLA-C, site-directed mutagenesis of genes that encode for SLA-3 using a reference HLA-C sequence would mimic an allo-transplant with such a disparity. Given the “less-polymorphic” nature of HLA-C, as compared to HLA-A and HLA-B, this would be further improved by the replacement of SLA-3 with a reference replacement sequence based on the subclass of HLA-C that is naturally prevalent in nature, and also invoking mechanisms that would allow for the minimal but requisite level of expression that would afford functionality and non-interruption of the numerous known and also those unknown MHC-I dependent processes.

With respect to the MHC-I proteins, the current disclosure either inactivate, or where necessary to retain the function of the “find and replace” orthologous SLA proteins with HLA analogs that would result in minimal immune recognition. In some aspects, silencing the genes which encode and are responsible for the expression of SLA-1 removes the highly-problematic and polymorphic HLA-A analog. Similarly, inactivation or complete removal of genes associated with SLA-2 would reduce the burden imposed by mismatched HLA-B proteins. This would, at the cell surface interface, appear to the human recipient's T cells as a HLA-A and HLA-B negative cell. With respect to the last of the classical MHC Class I proteins, HLA-C, site-directed mutagenesis of genes that encode for SLA-3 using a reference HLA-C sequence would mimic an allo-transplant with such a disparity. Given the “less-polymorphic” nature of HLA-C, as compared to HLA-A and HLA-B, this would be further improved by the replacement of SLA-3 with a reference replacement sequence based on the subclass of HLA-C that is naturally prevalent in nature, and also invoking mechanisms that would allow for the minimal but requisite level of expression that would afford functionality and non-interruption of the numerous known and also those unknown MHC-I dependent processes.

Furthermore, the expression of non-classical MHC proteins—those included in the I-b category, which include HLA-E, F, and G are vitally important to both the survival of the fetus and synergistic existence of the trophoblast(s). Fortunately, these are significantly less polymorphic than the “classical” MHC-Ia variety. Without expression of these, heightened upregulation of cell lysis is a direct result of NK cell recognition and activation is observed. In an identical manner as described to the MHC-Ia components, the orthologous SLA proteins with HLA analogs are either inactivated, or where necessary, to “find and replace(d)” FIG. 14 shows specific alterations that are included in the present disclosure.

HLA-G can be a potent immuno-inhibitory and tolerogenic molecule. HLA-G expression in a human fetus can enable the human fetus to elude the maternal immune response. Neither stimulatory functions nor responses to allogeneic HLA-G have been reported to date. HLA-G can be a non-classical HLA Class I molecule. It can differ from classical MHC Class I molecules by its genetic diversity, expression, structure, and function. HLA-G can be characterized by a low allelic polymorphism. Expression of HLA-G can be restricted to trophoblast cells, adult thymic medulla, and stem cells. The sequence of the HLA-G gene (HLA-6.0 gene) has been described by GERAGHTY et al., (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 1987, 84, 9145-9149): it comprises 4,396 base pairs and exhibits an intron/exon organization which is homologous to that of the HLA-A, HLA-B and HLA-C genes. More precisely, this gene comprises 8 exons and an untranslated, 3′UT, end, with the following respective correspondence: exon 1: signal sequence, exon 2: α1 domain, exon 3: α2 domain, exon 4: α3 domain, exon 5: transmembrane region, exon 6: cytoplasmic domain I, exon 7: cytoplasmic domain II, exon 8: cytoplasmic domain III and 3′ untranslated region (GERAGHTY et al., mentioned above, ELLIS et al., J. Immunol., 1990, 144, 731-735). However, the HLA-G gene differs from the other Class I genes in that the in-frame translation termination codon is located at the second codon of exon 6; as a result, the cytoplasmic region of the protein encoded by this gene HLA-6.0 is considerably shorter than that of the cytoplasmic regions of the HLA-A, HLA-B and HLA-C proteins.

Natural killer (NK) cell-mediated immunity, comprising cytotoxicity and cytokine secretion, plays a major role in biological resistance to a number of autologous and allogeneic cells. The common mechanism of target cell recognition appears to be the lack or modification of self MHC Class I-peptide complexes on the cell surface, which can lead to the elimination of virally infected cells, tumor cells and major histocompatibility MHC-incompatible grafted cells. KIR's, members of the Ig superfamily which are expressed on NK cells, have recently been discovered and cloned. KIR's are specific for polymorphic MHC Class I molecules and generate a negative signal upon ligand binding which leads to target cell protection from NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity in most systems. In order to prevent NK cell autoimmunity, i.e., the lysis of normal autologous cells, it is believed that every given NK cell of an individual expresses at least on KIR recognizing at least one of the autologous HLA-A, B, C, or G alleles.

According to the present disclosure, in the context of swine-to-human xenotransplantation, each human recipient will have a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) (Class I, Class II and/or Class III) that is unique to that individual and will not match the MHC of the donor swine. Accordingly, when a donor swine graft is introduced to the recipient, the swine MHC molecules themselves act as antigens, provoking an immune response from the recipient, leading to transplant rejection.

According to this aspect of the present disclosure (i.e., reprogramming the SLA/MHC to express specifically selected human MHC alleles), when applied to swine cells, tissues, and organs for purposes of xenotransplantation will decrease rejection as compared to cells, tissues, and organs derived from a wild-type swine or otherwise genetically modified swine that lacks this reprogramming, e.g., transgenic swine or swine with non-specific or different genetic modifications.

With the previous modifications incorporated, insertion or activation of additional extracellular ligands that would create a protective, localized immune response as seen with the maternal-fetal symbiosis, would be an additional step to minimize deleterious cellular-mediated immunological functions that may remain as a result of minor-antigen disparities. Therefore, porcine ligands for SLA-MIC2 is orthologously reprogrammed with human counterparts, MICA. Human Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I Chain-Related gene A (MICA) is a cell surface glycoprotein expressed on endothelial cells, dendritic cells, fibroblasts, epithelial cells, and many tumours. It is located on the short arm of human chromosome 6 and consists of 7 exons, 5 of which encodes the transmembrane region of the MICA molecule. MICA protein at normal states has a low level of expression in epithelial tissues but is upregulated in response to various stimuli of cellular stress. MICA is classified as a non-classical MHC Class I gene, and functions as a ligand recognized by the activating receptor NKG2D that is expressed on the surface of NK cells and CD8+ T cells (atlasgeneticsoncology.org/Genes/MICAID41364ch6p21.html).

In addition, porcine ligands for PD-L1, CTLA-4, and others are overexpressed and/or otherwise orthologously reprogrammed with human counterparts. PD-L1 is a transmembrane protein that has major role in suppressing the adaptive immune system in pregnancy, allografts, and autoimmune diseases. It is encoded by the CD274 gene in human and is located in chromosome 9. PD-L1 binds to PD-1, a receptor found on activated T cells, B cells, and myeloid cells, to modulate activation or inhibition. Particularly, the binding of PD-L1 to receptor PD-1 on T cells inhibits activation of IL-2 production and T cell proliferation. CTLA4 is a protein receptor that also functions as an immune checkpoint that downregulates immune responses. It is encoded by the CTLA4 gene and is located in chromosome 2 in human. It is constitutively expressed on regulatory T cells but are upregulated in activated T cells. Gene expression for CTLA-4 and PD-L1 is increased, for example, based on reprogramming promoters thereof. There is a relationship between genotype and CTLA-4 or PD-L1 expression. For example, individuals carrying thymine at position −318 of the CTLA4 promoter (T(−318)) and homozygous for adenine at position 49 in exon 1 showed significantly increased expression both of cell-surface CTLA-4 after cellular stimulation and of CTLA-4 mRNA in non-stimulated cells in Ligers A, et al. CTLA-4 gene expression is influenced by promoter and exon 1 polymorphisms, Genes Immun. 2001 May; 2(3):145-52, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. A similar upregulation can be achieved to overexpress PD-L1 using a PD-L1 promoter reprogramming.

Further, anti-coagulant porcine ligands for Endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR), Thrombomodulin (TBM), Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor (TFPI), and others are orthologously reprogrammed with human counterparts, as shown in FIG. 14. Endothelial protein C receptor is endothelial cell-specific transmembrane glycoprotein encoded by PROCR gene that is located in chromosome 20 in human. It enhances activation of Protein C, an anti-coagulant serine protease, and has crucial role in activated protein C mediated cytoprotive signaling. Thrombomodulin is an integral membrane glycoprotein present on surface of endothelial cells. It is encoded by THBD gene that is located in chromosome 20 in human. In addition to functioning as cofactor in the thrombin-induced activation of protein C in the anticoagulant pathway, it also functions in regulating C3b inactivation. Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor (TFPI) is a glycoprotein that functions as natural anticoagulant by inhibiting Factor Xa. It encoded by TFPI gene located in chromosome 2 in human and the protein structure consists of three tandemly linked Kunitz domains. In human, two major isoforms of TFPi exists, TFPIα and TFPIβ. TFPIα consists of three inhibitory domains (K1, K2, and K3) and a positively charged C terminus while TFPIβ consists of two inhibitory domains (K1 and K2) and C terminus. While K1 and K2 domains are known to bind and inhibit Factor VII and Factor Xa, respectively, the inhibitory function of K3 is unknown. In certain aspects, the present disclosure centralizes (predicates) the creation of hypoimmunogenic and/or tolerogenic cells, tissues, and organs that does not necessitate the transplant recipients' prevalent and deleterious use of exogenous immunosuppressive drugs (or prolonged immunosuppressive regimens) following the transplant procedure to prolong the life-saving organ.

The table provided in FIG. 14 shows conceptual design that exhibit summation of various edits to create tolerogenic xenotransplantation swine cell that mimics the extracellular configuration of a human trophoblast. As exhibited in the FIG. 14, SLA-1, a swine gene orthologous to HLA-A, is silenced to mimic trophoblast, as HLA-A is not expressed on trophoblast. As further exhibited in the FIG. 14, SLA-8, a swine gene orthologous to HLA-G, is humanized through replacement with “human-capture” reference sequence, as HLA-G is expressed in trophoblast and has crucial role in maternal fetal tolerance, given its interaction with NK cells.

It is therefore understood that multiple source animals, with an array of biological properties including, but not limited to, genome modification and/or other genetically engineered properties, can be utilized to reduce immunogenicity and/or immunological rejection (e.g., acute, hyperacute, and chronic rejections) in humans resulting from xenotransplantation. In certain aspects, the present disclosure can be used to reduce or avoid thrombotic microangiopathy by transplanting the biological product of the present disclosure into a human patient. In certain aspects, the present disclosure can be used to reduce or avoid glomerulopathy by transplanting the biological product of the present disclosure into a human patient. It will be further understood that the listing of source animals set forth herein is not limiting, and the present invention encompasses any other type of source animal with one or more modifications (genetic or otherwise) that serve(s) to reduce immunogenicity and/or immunological rejection, singularly or in combination.

Bioinformatic Sequence Analysis Comparing Identities of Conserved and Non-Conserved Nucleotides Between Human Versus Swine Genomes at Various Immunologically Critical Loci

To reprogram the MHC disparities between the Swine Leukocyte Antigen (SLA) and the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA), the present disclosure includes using highly conserved MHC-loci between these two species, e.g., numerous genes that correspond in function. The MHC Class Ia, HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C have an analogous partner in the swine (the SLA 1, 2 and 3 respectively). In MHC Class II there are also numerous matches to be utilized during immunogenomic reprogramming according to the present disclosure.

As illustrated in FIG. 15, MHC genes are categorized into three classes; Class I, Class II, and Class III, all of which are encoded on human chromosome 6. The MHC genes are among the most polymorphic genes of the swine and human genomes, MHC polymorphisms are presumed to be important in providing evolutionary advantage; changes in sequence can result in differences in peptide binding that allow for better presentation of pathogens to cytotoxic T cells.

The known human HLA/MHC or an individual recipient's sequenced HLA/MHC sequence(s) may be utilized as a template to reprogram with precise substitution the swine leukocyte antigen (SLA)/MHC sequence to match, e.g., to have 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence homology to a known human HLA/MHC sequence or the human recipient's HLA/MHC sequence. Upon identifying a known human recipient HLA/MHC sequence to be used or performing genetic sequencing of a human recipient to obtain HLA/MHC sequences, 3 reprogramming may be performed to SLA/MHC sequences in cells of the swine based on desired HLA/MHC sequences. For example, several targeting guide RNA (gRNA) sequences are administered to the swine of the present disclosure to reprogram SLA/MHC sequences in cells of the swine with the template HLA/MHC sequences of the human recipient.

The term “MHC I complex” or the like, as used herein, includes the complex between the MHC I α chain polypeptide and the β2-microglobulin polypeptide. The term “MHC I polypeptide” or the like, as used herein, includes the MHC I a chain polypeptide alone. Typically, the terms “human MHC” and “HLA” can be used interchangeably.

For purposes of modifying donor SLA/MHC to match recipient HLA/MHC, comparative genomic organization of the human and swine histocompatibility complex has been mapped as illustrated in FIG. 16 and FIG. 17. For example, such SLA to HLA mapping can be found in: Lunney, J., “Molecular genetics of the swine major histocompatibility complex, the SLA complex,” Developmental and Comparative Immunology 33: 362-374 (2009) (“Lunney”), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Further, by comparing the loci of HLA and schematic molecular organization of various HLA genes, as illustrated in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, with the loci of SLA and schematic molecular organization of various SLA genes, as show in FIG. 17 and FIG. 18, it is readily discernible that the placement and number of exons in extracellular and transmembrane domain is common between HLA MHC and SLA MHC. Accordingly, a person of ordinary skill in the art effectively and efficiently genetically reprogram swine cells in view of the present disclosure and using the mapping of Lunney et al. as a reference tool.

The donor swine's SLA/MHC gene is used as a reference template in creating the replacement template. In implementing the present disclosure, the swine's SLA/MHC gene may be obtained through online archives or database such as Ensembl (http://vega.archive.ensembl.org/index.html). As illustrated in FIG. 19, FIG. 20, FIG. 21, and FIG. 22, the exact location of the SLA-DQA and SLA-DQB1 gene, the length of the respective gene (exon and intron), and the exact nucleotide sequences of SLA-DQA and SLA-DQB1 are mapped. In an alternative aspect of the present disclosure, the donor swine's SLA/MHC gene may be sequenced. In an alternative aspect of the present disclosure, the swine's whole genome may be sequenced. In one aspect, the sequenced SLA/MHC gene of the donor swine that can be used as a reference template include but are not limited to SLA-3, SLA-6, SLA-7, SLA-8, SLA-DQa, SLA-DQb, and beta-2 microglobulin. In another aspect, the sequenced SLA/MHC gene of the donor swine that can be used as a base template include but are not limited exon regions of SLA-3, SLA-6, SLA-7, SLA-8, SLA-DQa, SLA-DQb, and beta-2 microglobulin. In some aspects, other SLAs are unaltered and intron regions of the reprogrammed SLA regions are unaltered, thereby producing a minimally altered reprogrammed swine genome that provides cells, tissues and organs that are tolerogenic when transplanted into a human.

In accordance with one aspect the present invention, a donor swine is provided with a genome that is biologically engineered to express a specific set of known human HLA molecules. Such HLA sequences can be obtained, e.g., from the IPD-IMGT/HLA database (available at ebi.ac.uk/ipd/imgt/hla/) and the international ImMunoGeneTics information System® (available at imgt.org). Nomenclature for such genes is illustrated in FIG. 23. For example, HLA-A1, B8, DR17 is the most common HLA haplotype among Caucasians, with a frequency of 5%. Thus, the disclosed method can be performed using the known MHC/HLA sequence information in combination with the disclosures provided herein. The HLA sequences are obtainable through online archives or database such as Ensembl (vega.archive.ensembl.org/index.html). As illustrated in FIG. 24, the exact location of the HLA-DQA1 gene, the length of the respective gene (exon and intron), and the exact nucleotide sequences of HLA-DQA1 could be obtained.

In some aspects, the recipient's human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes and MHC (Class I, II and/or III), are identified and mapped. It will be understood that ascertaining the human recipient's HLA/MHC sequence can be done in any number of ways known in the art. For example, HLA/MHC genes are usually typed with targeted sequencing methods: either long-read sequencing or long-insert short-read sequencing. Conventionally, HLA types have been determined at 2-digit resolution (e.g., A*01), which approximates the serological antigen groupings. More recently, sequence specific oligonucleotide probes (SSOP) method has been used for HLA typing at 4-digit resolution (e.g., A*01:01), which can distinguish amino acid differences. Currently, targeted DNA sequencing for HLA typing is the most popular approach for HLA typing over other conventional methods. Since the sequence-based approach directly determines both coding and non-coding regions, it can achieve HLA typing at 6-digit (e.g., A*01:01:01) and 8-digit (e.g., A*01:01:01:01) resolution, respectively. HLA typing at the highest resolution is desirable to distinguish existing HLA alleles from new alleles or null alleles from clinical perspective. Such sequencing techniques are described in, for example, Elsner H A, Blasczyk R: (2004) Immunogenetics of HLA null alleles: implications for blood stem cell transplantation. Tissue antigens. 64 (6): 687-695; Erlich R L, et al (2011) Next-generation sequencing for HLA typing of Class I loci. BMC genomics. 12: 42-10.1186/1471-2164-12-42; Szolek A, et al. (2014) OptiType: Precision HLA typing from next-generation sequencing data. Bioinformatics 30:3310-3316; Nariai N, et al. (2015) HLA-VBSeq: Accurate HLA typing at full resolution from whole-genome sequencing data. BMC Genomics 16:S7; Dilthey A T, et al. (2016) High-accuracy HLA type inference from whole-genome sequencing data using population reference graphs. PLoS Comput Biol 12:e1005151; Xie C., et al. (2017) Fast and accurate HLA typing from short-read next-generation sequence data with xHLA 114 (30) 8059-8064, each of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

A complete disruption of MHC Class I expression on xenograft has shown to have detrimental effects on the viability of the animal. In a study, SLA Class I expression on porcine cells were abrogated by targeting exon 2 of the porcine beta-2-microglobulin gene. The genomic sequencing of the produced piglets showed modification at the B2M locus leading to a frameshift, a premature stop codon, and ultimately a functional knockout. However, the piglets of the study did not survive for more than 4 weeks due to unexpected disease processes, revealing that such disruptive genetic modification may have a negative impact on the viability of the animals. Sake H J, Frenszel A, Lucas-Hahn A, et al. Possible detrimental effects of beta-2-microglobulin knockout in pigs. Xenotransplantation. 2019; 26:e12525.

In one aspect, a replacement template is created for site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides of the donor swine's SLA/MHC wherein the reprogramming introduces non-transgenic, minimally-required alteration that does not result in any frameshifts or frame disruptions in specific exon regions of the native donor swine's SLA/MHC. The nucleotide sequence(s) of the replacement template is identified by: a) obtaining a biological sample containing DNA from a transplant recipient, b) sequencing MHC Class I and II genes in the transplant recipient's sample, c) comparing the nucleotide sequence of the recipient with that of the donor swine at various loci, and d) creating a replacement template for one or more of said loci, wherein said nucleotide sequence of the replacement template are at least 95% identical to the transplant recipient's nucleotide sequences, as further described below.

The spreadsheet in FIG. 25A and FIG. 25B, shows human capture reference sequence of exons of DQ-A₁ and DQ-B₁, respectively, of three individual recipients. As mentioned above, known human HLA/MHC or an individual recipient's sequenced HLA/MHC sequence(s) may be utilized as a template to reprogram with precise substitution the swine leukocyte antigen (SLA)/MHC sequence to match, e.g., to have 90%, 95%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence homology to a known human HLA/MHC sequence or the human recipient's HLA/MHC sequence. As shown in FIG. 25C, the known human HLA-DQA acquired through online database and individual recipients' sequenced HLA-DQA, can be compared in a nucleotide Sequence Library. FIG. 26D shows comparison of exon 2 region of the swine's SLA-DQA acquired through online database and the known and sequenced recipient's HLA-DQA1. Both exon 2 region of SLA-DQA and HLA-DQA1 contain 249 nucleotides. As illustrated in FIG. 25D, it can be observed that 11% of the aligned 249 nucleotides between exon 2 regions of SLA-DQA1 and HLA-DQA1 are completely divergent. Therefore, this disclosure disclose method of identifying the non-conserved nucleotide sequences at a specific exons of human and swine MHC complex. Furthermore, by using a human capture reference template, known or sequenced, a site-directed mutagenesis can be performed wherein the specific non-conserved nucleotide sequence between the specific exon regions of the SLA gene and the known or recipient's HLA gene are replaced without causing any frameshift. The site-directed mutagenesis of the SLA-DQA1 and SLA-DQB1 gene is shown in FIG. 26A and FIG. 26B, wherein the nucleotide sequences of the exon 2 region of the recipient specific HLA-DQA1 and HLA-DQB1 are used to create a human capture replacement sequence. Therefore, the use of synthetic replacement template specific to the exon regions of the MHC gene, leads to a non-transgenic, minimally altered genome that does not result in any frameshifts or frame disruptions in the native donor swine's SLA/MHC gene.

As mentioned above, disruptive genetic modification that causes frameshifts may have a negative impact on the viability of the animals. Therefore, the present invention discloses method of inhibiting expression of MHC proteins without causing frameshift in the MHC gene. The spreadsheet in FIG. 25E and FIG. 25F shows human capture reference sequence of exons of DR-A and DR-B₁, respectively, of three individual recipients. As shown in FIG. 26C and FIG. 26D, by replacing the initial three nucleotide sequences of the leader exon 1 to a STOP codon, the expression of DR molecule can be inhibited without causing frameshift. Specifically, for HLA-DRA and DRB₁, the initial three sequences of exon 1, ATG, is replaced with stop codon, TAA. Therefore, by using synthetic replacement template, wherein stop codon is placed in the beginning of exon 1, the invention provides method of inhibiting expression of desired MHC molecule, wherein the non-transgenic, minimally alteration of genome does not result in any frameshifts or frame disruptions in the native donor swine's SLA/MHC gene.

Further, the beta-2-microglobulin protein which comprises the heterodimer structure of each of the MHC-I proteins is species-specific. Based on the pig genome assembly SSC10.2, a segmental duplication of ˜45.5 kb, encoding the entire B2M protein, was identified in pig chromosome 1, wherein functional duplication of the B2M gene identified with a completely identical coding sequence between two copies in pigs. The phylogenetic analysis of B2M duplication in ten mammalian species, confirming the presence of B2M duplication in cetartioldactyls, like cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and whales, but non-cetartiodactyl species, like mice, cats, dogs, horses, and humans. The density of long interspersed nuclear element (LINE) at the edges of duplicated blocks (39 to 66%) was found to be 2 to 3-fold higher than the average (20.12%) of the pig genome, suggesting its role in the duplication event. The B2M mRNA expression level in pigs was 12.71 and 7.57 times (2-AACt values) higher than humans and mice, respectively. The identification of partially remaining duplicated B2M sequences in the genomes of only cetartiodactyls indicates that the event was lineage specific. B2M duplication could be beneficial to the immune system of pigs by increasing the availability of MHC class I light chain protein, B2M, to complex with the proteins encoded by the relatively large number of MHC class I heavy chain genes in pigs. As shown in FIG. 27, B2M molecule with respect to MHC Class I molecule can be observed. Further as stated above and shown in FIG. 27, swine has duplication of B2M gene while human has one. Thus, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first copy of the swine B2M gene is reprogrammed through site-directed mutagenesis, as previously disclosed. As shown in FIG. 28, the amino acid sequences of exon 2 of the swine B2M is compared with that of the human, wherein the non-conserved regions are identified. In addition, the expression of the second copy of the swine B2M gene is inhibited by use of STOP codon, as previously disclosed. Thus, in one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a genetic modification, wherein the first copy of the swine B2M gene is reprogrammed through site-directed mutagenesis and second duplicated B2M gene is not expressed, wherein the reprogramming does not result in frameshift of B2M gene.

Selection and Characterization of Pilot Cell Porcine Line for Humanization by Genetic Modification

Primary macrophages and other antigen presenting cells (APC) are useful for studying immune response, however, the long term use of primary cells is limited by the cells' short life span. In addition, primary cells can only be genetically engineered and evaluated one time before the cells reach senescence. In the pig model, investigators frequently have used porcine aortic endothelial cells (PAECs) for these type of studies. An immortalized cell line that has the desired characteristics (expression of MHC Class I and II molecules and CD80/86) of a macrophage or representative APC would be ideal to conduct multiple modifications of the genome and address impact on immunological reactivity using the same genetic background. The ability to generate a viable immortalized pig cell line has been limited to fibroblasts and epithelial cell lines which are not relevant for the study of the immune response in xenotransplantation.

An immortalized porcine alveolar macrophage (PAM) line was developed from Landrace strain of pig [Weingartl 2002] and is commercially available through ATCC [3D4/21, ATCC CRL-2843]. The cell line showed some percentage of non-specific esterase and phagocytosis which was dependent upon conditions of the medium. Cells could be grown as anchorage dependent or in colonies under serum free conditions. Myeloid/monocyte markers (e.g. CD14) were detected. Desired characteristics of an immortalized cell line was MHC Class I and II. MHC Class I was shown to be broadly expressed on all cells, however, MHC Class II, DR and DQ, expression of 3D4/21 cells was initially reported as being low, 18% and 4%. PAEC have been shown to be activated and DR expression could be upregulated with exposure to IFN-gamma. 3D4/21 cells were exposed to IFN-gamma and Class II expression increased DR: 29.68% to 42.27% and DQ: 2.28% to 57.36% after 24 hours of exposure to IFN-gamma. In addition, CD80/86 are expressed on the cell surface, these glycoproteins are essential for the second signal of T cell activation and proliferation. PAM cells, 34D/21, have the desired characteristics of a porcine APC in which genetic changes in genes associated with the MHC can be documented using an immortalized cell line and the resulting changes in the phenotype can be assessed using flow cytometry to address expression or lack of expression of the glycoproteins of interest and cellular immune responses, Mixed Lymphocyte Response (MLR).

To test for cellular immune response, a one way MLR is set up in which one set of cells is identified as the stimulator cells, these are donor cells or unmodified or modified PAM cells, and the other set of cells is the responder cells, these are cells from the recipient (these could be from recipient's who share a similar expression of MHC molecules are the modified PAM cells. The stimulator cells are treated with an agent to prevent the cells from proliferating and this could be either radiation or incubation with mitomycin C which covalently crosslinks DNA, inhibiting DNA synthesis and cell proliferation. Hence, the stimulator cells do not proliferate in culture however, the responder cells proliferate in response to interaction at the MHC Class I and II and it is this proliferation that is measured in a MLR. A cell culture containing both stimulator and responder cells is prepared and incubated for 5-7 days and proliferation/activation is measured. Proliferation can be measured by the amount of radioactive thymidine [³HTdr] or BrdU [analog of thymidine] that is incorporated into the DNA upon proliferation at the end of 5 or 7 days.

Combinations of the MLR. Responders cells can be either PBMC, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells or other subpopulations of T cells. PBMC represent all the immune cells that are present in the recipient and the measured response reflects the ability of the responders to mount an immune response to the stimulator cells, [unmodified or modified PAM cells]. The measured proliferation consists of both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells which interact with MHC Class II and I, respectively. Using only CD4+ T cells against the unmodified or modified PAM cells is to measure the response to MHC Class II glycoproteins, DR and DQ. To observe a specific response to DQ, human antigen presenting cells (APCs) are absent from the culture such that the cellular response is not the result of pig antigens presented by the APCs. In parallel, responder CD8+ T cells will be used to assess an immune response to MHC Class I glycoproteins, SLA 1 AND 2. This type of analysis removes the contribution to the immune response from responder APCs as found in PBMC. Comparative data will demonstrate the contribution of these respective glycoproteins to the immune response of the genetically defined responder and reflects on the genetic modifications made to the PAM cells.

Flow cytometry, phenotypic analysis of the genetically modified PAM cells. The cell phenotype of genetically modified cells, e.g., cells from a genetically modified animal or cells made ex vivo, are analyzed to measure the changes in expression of the glycoproteins encoded by the genes that were modified. Cells are incubated with an antibody with a fluorescent label that binds to the glycoprotein of interest and labeled cells are analyzed using flow cytometry. The analysis has been performed on unmodified PAM cells to identify the expression of MHC Class I, Class II (DR and DQ) and CD80/86. Changes in modified PAM cells will be referenced to this database. Flow cytometry will also be used to characterize the expression of glycoproteins encoded by genes for SLA 3, 6, 7, and 8 as the genes in the PAM cells are modified with recipient specific sequences related to HLA C, E, F, and G.

In addition, this type of analysis is also used to ensure the glycoprotein encoded by a gene that is knock-out is not expressed. This technique can also be used to sort out genetically modified cells from a pool of cells with mixed phenotypes.

Complement Dependent Cytotoxicity (CDC) assays may be performed to determine if anti-HLA antibodies recognize the cells from the biological product of the present disclosure. Assay plates prepared by adding a specific human serum containing previously characterized anti-HLA antibodies (or control serum) can be used. IFN-γ treated donor cells are resuspended and added to the assay plates, incubated with a source of complement, e.g., rabbit serum. After at least 1 hour of incubation at room temperature, acridine orange/ethidium bromide solution is added. Percent cytotoxicity is determined by counting dead and live cells visualized on a fluorescent microscope, subtracting spontaneous lysis values obtained in the absence of anti-HLA antibodies, and scoring with a scale.

NK cell reactivity, modulation to decrease cytotoxicity. Potential mechanisms of activation, recognition, and elimination of target cells by NK cells, alone or in combination, induce the release of the content of their lytic granules (perforin, granzyme, and cytolysin). As an example, NK cells recognize the lack of self-major histocompatibility complex (MHC) Class I molecules on target cells by inhibitory NK cell receptors leading to direct NK cytotoxicity. This is the case for xenotransplantation. NK cells are regulated by HLA C that is recognized by inhibitory NK cell inhibitory killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs), KIR2DL2/2DL3,KIR2DL1, and KIR3DL1. NK cells inhibitory receptor, immunoglobulin-like transcript 2 (ILT2) interacts with MHC Class I and CD94-NKG2A recognizing HLA-E. HLA F and G have similar roles on the trophoblast. The cytolytic activity of recipient NK cells to an unmodified PAM cell can be measured in vitro in which human NK cells are added to an adherent monolayer of unmodified PAM cells and cultured for 4 hours. Cell lysis is measured by release of radioactive Cr⁵¹ or a chromophore measured by flow cytometry. PAM cells with modified SLA 3, 6, 7 or 8 to mirror HLA C, HLA E, HLA G or HLA F, respectively, can be assessed using this cytotoxicity assay.

For knock in cells, the desired sequences are knocked into the cell genome through insertion of genomic material using, e.g., homology-directed repair (HDR). To optimize expression of Class II molecules, the cells are incubated in porcine interferon gamma (IFN-γ) for 72 hours which stimulates expression. Expression is then measured by flow cytometry using target specific antibodies. Flow cytometry may include anti-HLA-C, HLA-E, HLA-G, or other HLA antibodies, or pan anti-HLA Class I or Class II antibodies. According to the present disclosure, cell surface HLA expression after knock-in is confirmed.

A study was conducted identify the impact of the stimulation by IFN-γ and IFN-γ+LPS on the phenotype of the porcine alveolar macrophages (PAM) purchased from ATCC® (3D4/21 cells cat #CRL-2843TM) by flow cytometry.

PAM cells were thawed in RPMI-1640/10% FBS and cultured for two days in three different culture plates. On Day 3, for macrophage activation culture medium was replaced with RPMI-1640/20% FBS medium containing 100 ng/mL IFN-γ (Plate 1) and 100 ng/mL IFN-γ plus 10 ng/mL LPS (Plate 2). Untreated cells in RPMI-1640/20% FBS were used as control (Plate 3). Following 24 hours incubation, adherent cells were detached from the plate using TrypLE treatment. Cells were resuspended in FACS buffer (1×PBS pH=7.4, 2 mM EDTA, 0.5% BSA). Cell count and viability were determined by trypan blue exclusion method. A total of 1×105 cells were stained with mouse anti pig SLA Class I, SLA Class II DR, SLA Class II DQ antibodies for 30 min and APC-conjugated CD152(CTLA-4)-mulg fusion protein (binds to porcine CD80/CD86) for 45 min at 4° C. Cells were washed two times using FACS buffer and antibody stained cells resuspended in 100 μL FACS buffer containing anti mouse APC-conjugated polyclonal IgG secondary antibody. Followed by incubation for 30 min at 4° C. Cells were washed two times using FACS buffer. All cells were resuspended in 200 μL FACS buffer. Samples were acquired in Novacyte flow cytometry and data was analyzed using NovoExpress.

Analysis procedure is based on NovoExpress flow cytometry analysis software. Any equivalent software can be used for the data analysis. Depending on the software used analysis presentation maybe slightly different. Gates maybe named differently and % values might be slightly different.

As shown in FIG. 29, untreated PAM cells result 99.98%, 29.68%, and 2.28% SLA Class I, SLA Class II DR and DQ molecules expression respectively. These cells were 4.81% CD80/86+. 24 hours of culturing cells in the presence of IFN-γ increased all SLA molecule expression (99.99% SLA Class I+ with increased median fluorescence intensity, 42.27% DR+, 57.36% DQ+) and CD80/86 levels (47.38%). IFN-γ containing cells with LPS resulted similar levels of SLA molecules and CD80/86 expression compared to cells only treated with IFN-γ.

PAM cells were treated with porcine IFN-γ for 24 hours and stained with primary MAbs and fluorescein conjugated secondary antibody and APC conjugated CD152 which has a high affinity for co-stimulatory molecules CD80 (B7-1) and CD86 (B7-2). Upon treatment with IFN-γ, the cells displayed increased SLA and CD80/86 costimulatory molecules expression compared to unstimulated PAM cells. While unstimulated cells were 99.98% SLA Class I+, 29.68% DR+2.28 DQ+ and 4.81% CD80/86+, IFN-γ stimulated cells were 99.99% SLA Class I+, 42.27% DR+, 57.36% DQ+, 47.38% CD80/86+. IFN-γ containing cells with LPS resulted similar levels of SLA molecules and CD80/86 expression compared to cells only treated with IFN-γ.

In basal conditions, macrophages express low levels of SLA Class II and CD80/86 costimulatory molecules. IFN-γ and IFN-γ-LPS treatment for 24 hours induces the expression of SLA Class II and CD80/86 costimulatory molecules as well as SLA Class I molecules. Extended incubations would perhaps increase the expression of these molecules further.

Further, a study was conducted to evaluate the immune proliferative responsiveness of human PBMCs (Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells), CD8 and CD4 positive T cells when they are co-cultured with porcine alveolar macrophages (PAM) cells. Human donor PBMCs or their CD4+ T cells were co-cultured with untreated, IFN-γ activated and KLH loaded PAM cells for seven days. As shown in FIG. 30A and FIG. 30B, one-way allogeneic and autologous MLR experiments were performed using the cells isolated from Donor #11, #50, and #57 as positive and negative controls respectively. Background controls were performed for Mitomycin C (X) treated and untreated PAM cells, and each human donor cells. Proliferative response is determined utilizing a bromo-deoxy uridine (BrdU) ELISA assay. On Day 6, BrdU addition was completed. On Day 7 media was collected for cytokine (IFN-γ and IL-2) analysis and proliferative responses were determined. Cells were observed under the Olympus CK40 microscopy at 200× magnification on Day 7 of co-culturing.

As shown in FIG. 31, 72 hours of culturing PAM cells in the presence of IFN-γ increased SLA Class II DQ molecule expression from 2.55% to 95.82%. KLH loaded PAM cells resulted expression of similar level of SLA Class II DQ molecules with untreated cells. All the allogeneic controls had a positive proliferative response over baseline values and mitomycin C treated PBMCs and PAM cells had a decreased proliferative response compared to baseline values. 1×105 purified human CD8+ T cells or human PBMC were stimulated with increasing numbers of irradiated (30 Gy) porcine PBMC from four-fold knockout pig 10261 or a wild-type pig. Proliferation was measured after 5 d+16 h by 3H-thymidine incorporation. Data representing mean cpm±SEM of triplicate cultures were obtained with cells from one human blood donor in a single experiment. Similar response patterns were observed using responder cells from a second blood donor and stimulator cells from four-fold knockout pig 10262. Proliferation of human CD8+ T cells decreased after stimulation with four-fold knockout porcine PBMC. (Fischer, et al., 2019). Human PBMCs and CD4+ proliferative responses resulted in allogeneic responses that were higher than the xenogeneic responses with PAM cells. The proliferative responses of three different human CD4+ T cells displayed similar xenogeneic responses with PAM cells SI (Stimulation Indexes) values being between 15 and 18.08. The proliferative responses were highest in xenogeneic cultures from PBMC Donor #57 (SI_(w/PAMX, PAM-IFNyX, KLHx)=3.12, 2.75, and 3.79).

Gene Editing Schema to Create Multiple, Independent, Single-Variable Humanized Pilot Porcine Cell Lines by CRISPR-Cas9 Genetic Modification

The genetic modification can be made utilizing known genome editing techniques, such as zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene editing, and clustered regular interspaced palindromic repeat Cas9 (CRISPR-Cas9). These programmable nucleases enable the targeted generation of DNA double-stranded breaks (DSB), which promote the upregulation of cellular repair mechanisms, resulting in either the error-prone process of non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) or homology-directed repair (HDR), the latter of which is used to integrate exogenous donor DNA templates. CRISPR-Cas9 may also be used to perform precise modifications of genetic material. For example, the genetic modification via CRISPR-Cas9 can be performed in a manner described in Kelton, W, et. al., “Reprogramming MHC specificity by CRISPR-Cas9-assisted cassette exchange,” Nature, Scientific Reports, 7:45775 (2017) (“Kelton”), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Accordingly, the present disclosure includes reprogramming using CRISPR-Cas9 to mediate rapid and scarless exchange of entire alleles, e.g., MHC, HLA, SLA, etc.

According to the present disclosure, CRISPR-Cas9 is used to mediate rapid and scarless exchange of entire MHC alleles at specific native locus in swine cells. Multiplex targeting of Cas9 with two gRNAs is used to introduce single or double-stranded breaks flanking the MHC allele, enabling replacement with the template HLA/MHC sequence (provided as a single or double-stranded DNA template).

In some aspects, the expression of polymorphic protein motifs of the donor animal's MHC can be further modified by knock-out methods known in the art. For example, knocking out one or more genes may include deleting one or more genes from a genome of a non-human animal. Knocking out may also include removing all or a part of a gene sequence from a non-human animal. It is also contemplated that knocking out can include replacing all or a part of a gene in a genome of a non-human animal with one or more nucleotides. Knocking out one or more genes can also include substituting a sequence in one or more genes thereby disrupting expression of the one or more genes. Knocking out one or more genes can also include replacing a sequence in one or more genes thereby disrupting expression of the one or more genes without frameshifts or frame disruptions in the native donor swine's SLA/MHC gene. For example, replacing a sequence can generate a stop codon in the beginning of one or more genes, which can result in a nonfunctional transcript or protein. For example, if a stop codon is created within one or more genes, the resulting transcription and/or protein can be disrupted, silenced and rendered nonfunctional.

In another aspect, the present invention utilizes alteration by nucleotide replacement of STOP codon at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-DR to avoid provocation of natural cellular mediated immune response (CD8+ T Cell) by the recipient, including making cells that lack functional expression of SLA-DR, SLA-1, SLA-2. For example, the present invention utilizes TAA. In other embodiments, the invention utilizes TAG. In other embodiments, the invention utilizes TGA.

In one aspect, the present invention utilizes insertion or creation (by nucleotide replacement) of STOP codon at exons regions of the wild-type swine's second, identical duplication B2-microglobulin gene to reduce the B2-microglobulin mRNA expression level in pigs. It will be understood that B2-microglobulin is a predominant immunogen, specifically a non-gal xeno-antigen.

In one aspect, the recipient's HLA/MHC gene is sequenced and template HLA/MHC sequences are prepared based on the recipient's HLA/MHC genes. In another aspect, a known human HLA/MHC genotype from a World Health Organization (WHO) database may be used for genetic reprogramming of swine of the present disclosure.

CRISPR-Cas9 plasmids are prepared, e.g., using polymerase chain reaction and the recipient's HLA/MHC sequences are cloned into the plasmids as templates. CRISPR cleavage sites at the SLA/MHC locus in the swine cells are identified and gRNA sequences targeting the cleavage sites and are cloned into one or more CRISPR-Cas9 plasmids. CRISPR-Cas9 plasmids are then administered into the swine cells and CRIPSR/Cas9 cleavage is performed at the MHC locus of the swine cells.

The SLA/MHC locus in the swine cells are precisely replaced with one or more template HLA/MHC sequences matching the known human HLA/MHC sequences or the recipient's sequenced HLA/MHC genes. Cells of the swine are sequenced after performing the SLA/MHC reprogramming steps in order to determine if the SLA/MHC sequences in the swine cells have been successfully reprogrammed. One or more cells, tissues, and/or organs from the HLA/MHC sequence-reprogrammed swine are transplanted into a human recipient.

The modification to the donor SLA/MHC to match recipient HLA/MHC causes expression of specific MHC molecules in the new swine cells that are identical, or virtually identical, to the MHC molecules of a known human genotype or the specific human recipient. In one aspect, the present disclosure involves making modifications limited to only specific portions of specific SLA regions of the swine's genome to retain an effective immune profile in the swine while biological products are tolerogenic when transplanted into human recipients such that use of immunosuppressants can be reduced or avoided. In contrast to aspects of the present disclosure, xenotransplantation studies of the prior art required immunosuppressant use to resist rejection. In one aspect, the swine genome is reprogrammed to disrupt, silence, cause nonfunctional expression of swine genes corresponding to HLA-A, HLA-B, and DR, and to reprogram via substitution of HLA-C, HLA-E, HLA-F, and/or HLA-G. In some aspects, the swine genome is reprogrammed to knock-out swine genes corresponding to HLA-A, HLA-B, HLA-C, HLA-F, DQ, and DR, and to knock-in HLA-C, HLA-E, HLA-G. In some aspects, the swine genome is reprogrammed to knock-out swine genes corresponding to HLA-A, HLA-B, HLA-C, HLA-F, DQ, and DR, and to knock-in HLA-C, HLA-E, HLA-G, HLA-F, and DQ. In one aspect, the swine genome is reprogrammed to knock-out SLA-1; SLA-6,7,8; SLA-MIC2; and SLA-DQA; SLA-DQB1; SLA-DQB2, and to knock-in HLA-C; HLA-E; HLA-G; and HLA-DQ. In certain aspects, HLA-C expression is reduced in the reprogrammed swine genome. By reprogramming the swine cells to be invisible to a human's immune system, this reprogramming thereby minimizes or even eliminates an immune response that would have otherwise occurred based on swine MHC molecules otherwise expressed from the donor swine cells.

Various cellular marker combinations in swine cells are made and tested to prepare biologically reprogrammed swine cells for acceptance by a human patient's body for various uses. For these tests, Porcine Aorta Endothelial Cells, fibroblast, or a transformed porcine macrophage cell line available from ATCC® (3D4/21) are used.

The knockout only and knockout plus knock in cell pools are generated by designing and synthesizing a guide RNA for the target gene. Each guide RNA is composed of two components, a CRISPR RNA (crRNA) and a trans-activating RNA (tracrRNA). These components may be linked to form a continuous molecule called a single guide RNA (sgRNA) or annealed to form a two-piece guide (cr:tracrRNA).

CRISPR components (gRNA and Cas9) can be delivered to cells in DNA, RNA, or ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex formats. The DNA format involves cloning gRNA and Cas9 sequences into a plasmid, which is then introduced into cells. If permanent expression of gRNA and/or Cas9 is desired, then the DNA can be inserted into the host cell's genome using a lentivirus. Guide RNAs can be produced either enzymatically (via in vitro transcription) or synthetically. Synthetic RNAs are typically more pure than IVT-derived RNAs and can be chemically modified to resist degradation. Cas9 can also be delivered as RNA. The ribonucleoproteins (RNP) format consists of gRNA and Cas9 protein. The RNPs are pre-complexed together and then introduced into cells. This format is easy to use and has been shown to be highly effective in many cell types.

After designing and generating the guide RNA, the CRISPR components are introduced into cells via one of several possible transfection methods, such as lipofection, electroporation, nucleofection, or microinjection. After a guide RNA and Cas9 are introduced into a cell culture, they produce a DSB at the target site within some of the cells. The NHEJ pathway then repairs the break, potentially inserting or deleting nucleotides (indels) in the process. Because NHEJ may repair the target site on each chromosome differently, each cell may have a different set of indels or a combination of indels and unedited sequences.

For knock in cells, the desired sequences are knocked into the cell genome through insertion of genomic material using, e.g., homology-directed repair (HDR).

It will be further understood that disruptions and modifications to the genomes of source animals provided herein can be performed by several methods including, but not limited to, through the use of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (“CRISPR”), which can be utilized to create animals having specifically tailored genomes. See, e.g., Niu et al., “Inactivation of porcine endogenous retrovirus in pigs using CRISPR-Cas-9,” Science 357:1303-1307 (22 Sep. 2017). Such genome modification can include, but not be limited to, any of the genetic modifications disclosed herein, and/or any other tailored genome modifications designed to reduce the bioburden and immunogenicity of products derived from such source animals to minimize immunological rejection.

CRISPR/CRISPR-associated protein (Cas), originally known as a microbial adaptive immune system, has been adapted for mammalian gene editing recently. The CRISPR/Cas system is based on an adaptive immune mechanism in bacteria and archaea to defend the invasion of foreign genetic elements through DNA or RNA interference. Through mammalian codon optimization, CRISPR/Cas has been adapted for precise DNA/RNA targeting and is highly efficient in mammalian cells and embryos. The most commonly used and intensively characterized CRISPR/Cas system for genome editing is the type II CRISPR system from Streptococcus pyogenes; this system uses a combination of Cas9 nuclease and a short guide RNA (gRNA) to target specific DNA sequences for cleavage. A 20-nucleotide gRNA complementary to the target DNA that lies immediately 5′ of a PAM sequence (e.g., NGG) directs Cas9 to the target DNA and mediates cleavage of double-stranded DNA to form a DSB. Thus, CRISPR/Cas9 can achieve gene targeting in any N20-NGG site.

Thus, also encompassed by the invention is a genetically modified non-human animal whose genome comprises a nucleotide sequence encoding a human or humanized MHC I polypeptide and/or β2 microglobulin polypeptide, wherein the polypeptide(s) comprises conservative amino acid substitutions of the amino acid sequence(s) described herein.

One skilled in the art would understand that in addition to the nucleic acid residues encoding a human or humanized MHC I polypeptide and/or β2 microglobulin described herein, due to the degeneracy of the genetic code, other nucleic acids may encode the polypeptide(s) of the invention. Therefore, in addition to a genetically modified non-human animal that comprises in its genome a nucleotide sequence encoding MHC I and/or β2 microglobulin polypeptide(s) with conservative amino acid substitutions, a non-human animal whose genome comprises a nucleotide sequence(s) that differs from that described herein due to the degeneracy of the genetic code is also provided.

In an additional or alternative approach, the present disclosure includes reprogramming, or leveraging the inhibitory and co-stimulatory effects of the MHC-I (Class B) molecules. Specifically, the present disclosure includes a process that “finds and replaces” portions of the donor animal genome corresponding to portions of the HLA gene, e.g., to overexpress HLA-G where possible, retaining and overexpressing portions corresponding to HLA-E, and/or “finding and replacing” portions corresponding to HLA-F. As used herein, the term “find and replace” includes identification of the homologous/analogous/orthologous conserved genetic region and replacement of the section or sections with the corresponding human components through gene editing techniques.

Another aspect includes finding and replacing the beta-2 microglobulin protein which is expressed in HLA-A, -B, -C, -E, -F, and -G. Homologous/analogous/orthologous conserved cytokine mediating complement inhibiting or otherwise immunomodulatory cell markers, or surface proteins, that would enhance the overall immune tolerance at donor-recipient cellular interface.

In an additional or alternative approach, the present invention utilizes immunogenomic reprogramming to reduce or eliminate MHC-I (Class A) components to avoid provocation of natural cellular mediated immune response by the recipient. In another aspect, exon regions in the donor animal (e.g., swine) genome corresponding to exon regions of HLA-A and HLA-B are disrupted, silenced or otherwise nonfunctionally expressed on the donor animal. In another aspect, exon regions in the donor animal (e.g., swine) genome corresponding to exon regions of HLA-A and HLA-B are disrupted, silenced or otherwise nonfunctionally expressed in the genome of the donor animal and exon regions in the donor animal (e.g., swine) genome corresponding to exon regions of HLA-C may be modulated, e.g., reduced. In one aspect, the present disclosure includes silencing, knocking out, or causing the minimal expression of source animal's orthologous HLA-C (as compared to how such would be expressed without such immunogenomic reprogramming).

Further, the beta-2-microglobulin protein which comprises the heterodimer structure of each of the MHC-I proteins is species-specific. Thus, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is reprogrammed. In contrast to its counterparts, the genetic instructions encoding for this prevalent, building-block protein is not located in the MHC-gene loci. Thus, in one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a genetic modification in addition to those specific for the respective targets as described herein.

FIG. 33 is a schematic depiction of a humanized porcine cell according to the present disclosure. As shown therein, the present disclosure involves reprogramming exons encoding specific polypeptides or glycoproteins, reprogramming and upregulating specific polypeptides or glycoproteins, and reprogramming the nuclear genome to have nonfunctional expression of specific polypeptides or glycoproteins, all of which are described in detail herein.

Characterization of Humanized Pilot Porcine Cell Lines and In Vitro Evaluation of Resultant Impact to Immunological

Genetically modified cells, e.g., cells from a genetically modified animal or cells made ex vivo, can be analyzed and sorted. In some cases, genetically modified cells can be analyzed and sorted by flow cytometry, e.g., fluorescence-activated cell sorting. For example, genetically modified cells expressing a gene of interest can be detected and purified from other cells using flow cytometry based on a label (e.g., a fluorescent label) recognizing the polypeptide encoded by the gene. In this application, the surface expression of SLA-1, SLA-2, SLA-3, SLA-6, SLA-7, SLA-8, SLA-DR and SLA-DQ on unmodified PAM cells is established using labeled antibodies directed to epitopes on those glycoproteins. In the case of specific gene knock outs (e.g. SLA-1, SLA-2 and SLA-DR), analysis by flow cytometry is used to demonstrate the lack of expression of these glycoproteins even after incubation of the cells with interferon gamma. Genes for SLA-3, SLA-6, SLA-7, SLA-8, and SLA-DQ will be modified such that glycoproteins expressed on the cell surface will reflect HLA-C, HLA-E, HLA-F, HLA-G and HLA-DQ glycoproteins, respectively. Hence a different set of antibodies specific for the HLA epitopes will be used to detect expression of the glycoproteins encoded by the modified genes and antibodies directed to the SLA related glycoproteins will not bind to the cell surface of the modified PAM cells.

When knocking out surface sugar glycan epitopes, a cell line that does not express the sugar moieties is obtained, so there is no binding of natural preformed antibodies found in human serum. This is detected using flow cytometry and human serum and a labeled goat anti human IgG or IgM antibody; or specific antibodies directed against sugars; or labeled sugar specific isolectins. The result is no binding of the antibodies (isolectins) to the final cell line. Positive control is the original cell line (WT) without genetic modifications. In addition, a molecular analysis demonstrates changes in those genes.

For knock in cells, the desired sequences are knocked into the cell genome through insertion of genomic material using, e.g., homology-directed repair (HDR). To optimize expression of Class II molecules, the cells are incubated in porcine interferon gamma (IFN-γ) for up to 72 hours which stimulates expression. Expression is then measured by flow cytometry using target specific antibodies. Flow cytometry may include anti-HLA-C, HLA-E, HLA-G, or other HLA antibodies, or pan anti-HLA Class I or Class II antibodies. According to the present disclosure, cell surface HLA expression after knock-in is confirmed.

The immune response of the modified swine cells are evaluated through Mixed Lymphocyte Reaction (MLR) study. Responders cells can be either PBMC, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells or other subpopulations of T cells. PBMC represent all the immune cells that are present in the recipient and the measured response reflects the ability of the responders to mount an immune response to the stimulator cells, for example, a comparison of unmodified PAM cells and modified PAM cells. Alternatively, PAECs or fibroblasts may be used. The measured proliferation consists of both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells which interact with MHC Class II and I, respectively. Using only CD4+ T cells against the unmodified or modified PAM cells measures the response to MHC Class II glycoproteins, DR and DQ. For example, in an MLR where SLA DR is knocked out in the PAM cells, the CD4+ T cell proliferative response will be decreased; or when SLA-DQ gene is modified by using a sequence from a “recipient” [the responder] the proliferative response will be decreased since in this case the responder recognizes the DQ glycoprotein as self, whereas, in the DR knock-out, DR was absent and thus a signal could not be generated.

Responder CD8+ T cells were used to assess an immune response to MHC Class I glycoproteins, SLA-1 and SLA-2. 1×10⁵ purified human CD8+ T cells (A) or human PBMC (B) were stimulated with increasing numbers of irradiated (30 Gy) porcine PBMC from four-fold knockout pig 10261 or a wild-type pig. Proliferation was measured after 5 d+16 h by 3H-thymidine incorporation. Data represent mean cpm±SEM of triplicate cultures obtained with cells from one human blood donor in a single experiment. Similar response patterns were observed using responder cells from a second blood donor and stimulator cells from four-fold knockout pig 10262. Proliferation of human CD8+ T cells decreased after stimulation with four-fold knockout porcine PBMC. (Fischer, et al., Viable pigs after simultaneous inactivation of porcine MHC Class I and three xenoreactive antigen genes GGTA1, CMAH and B4GALNT2, Xenotransplantation, 2019). Modified knock out PAM cells not expressing SLA-1 and SLA-2 will not generate a CD8+ T cell response. This is in contrast with a response using PBMC as the responders. See FIG. 34.

Complement Dependent Cytotoxicity (CDC) assays may be performed to determine if anti-HLA antibodies recognize the cells from the biological product of the present disclosure. Assay plates prepared by adding a specific human plasma containing previously characterized anti-HLA antibodies (or control plasma) can be used. Plasma is serially diluted starting at 1:50 to 1:36450 in HBSS media with calcium and magnesium, incubated with modified or unmodified PAM cells for 30 minutes at 4° C. followed by incubation with freshly reconstituted baby rabbit complement for 1 hour at 37° C. The cells were then stained with Fluorescein Diacetate (FDA) and Propidium Iodide (PI) for 15 minutes and analyzed by flow cytometry. Appropriate compensation controls were run for each assay. Cells were acquired and analyzed on an ACEA NovoCyte Flow Cytometer. PAM cells can also be treated with interferon gamma to increase surface expression of MHC molecules.

Cell populations were determined for the following conditions:

-   -   a. Dead Cells: PI+, FDA−     -   b. Damaged Cells: PI+, FDA+     -   c. Live Cells: PI−, FDA+

Appropriate calculations were performed to determine % cytotoxicity for each concentration (dilution) of plasma, and the results plotted in Prism. Based on the cytotoxicity curve, the required dilution for 50% kill (IC50) was determined. This is illustrated using human plasma against WT or GalTKO porcine PBMC in FIG. 36A and FIG. 36B, where reduced cytotoxicity was identified against cells lacking a 1,3-galactose on the glycoproteins.

NK cytotoxicity against unmodified and modified PAM cells where genes for SLA 3, SLA 6, SLA 7, and SLA 8 are modified such that glycoproteins expressed on the cell surface will reflect HLA C, HLA E, HLA F, and HLA G glycoproteins, respectively. The cytotoxic activity of freshly isolated and IL-2-activated human NK cells was tested in 4-hr 51Cr release assays in serum-free AIM-V medium. Labeled unmodified and modified PAM cells are cultured in triplicate with serial 2-fold dilutions of NK cells four E:T ratios ranging from 40:1 to 5:1. After incubation for 4 hr at 37° C., the assays are stopped, ⁵¹Cr release is analyzed on a gamma counter, and the percentage of specific lysis was calculated. NK cells from a specific genetically matched “recipient” will have reduced killing of modified PAM cells compared to unmodified PAM cells. The protection provided by HLA E in transfected PAEC cells against NK cells is illustrated in FIG. 34.

HLA E expression on porcine lymphoblastoid cells inhibits xenogeneic human NK cytotoxicity. NK cytotoxicity of 2 donors, KH and MS, against 13271-E/A2 or 13271-E/B7 (solid diamonds) transfected with HLA E/A2 or HLA E/B7, respectively or untransfected 13271 cells (open triangle). To optimize expression of Class II molecules, the cells are incubated in porcine interferon gamma (IFN-γ) for 72 hours which stimulates expression. Expression is then measured by flow cytometry using target specific antibodies. Flow cytometry may include anti-HLA-C, HLA-E, HLA-G, or other HLA antibodies, or pan anti-HLA Class I or Class II antibodies. According to the present disclosure, cell surface HLA expression after knock-in is confirmed.

Multiple, Simultaneous Genetic Modifications in a Single Pilot Porcine Cell Line to Achieve Relative Humanized Phenotype and Consequential Reduction of CD8+, CD4+, and Natural Killer Cell Immune Reactivity as a Direct Result of Multiple CRISPRCas9 Genetic Modification Schema

In some aspects, genetic modifications in a porcine cell line to insert the modifications listed in table listed in FIG. 33. In some aspects, in addition to the genetic modifications listed in FIG. 33, the three predominant swine cell surface glycans (alpha-Gal, Neu5Gc, and Sda) are not expressed in order to reduce the hyperacute rejection phenomenon and the deleterious activation of antibody-mediated immune pathways, namely activation of the complement cascade. With this step, creation of an allogeneic-“like” cell with respect to non-MHC cell markers is grossly achieved.

Genetically modified cells, e.g., cells from a genetically modified animal or cells made ex vivo, are analyzed and sorted. In some cases, genetically modified cells can be analyzed and sorted by flow cytometry, e.g., fluorescence-activated cell sorting. For example, genetically modified cells expressing a gene of interest can be detected and purified from other cells using flow cytometry based on a label (e.g., a fluorescent label) recognizing the polypeptide encoded by the gene. The gene of interest may be as small as a few hundred pairs of cDNA bases, or as large as about a hundred thousand pairs of bases of a genic locus comprising the exonic-intron encoding sequence and regulation sequences necessary to obtain an expression controlled in space and time. Preferably, the size of the recombined DNA segment is between 25 kb and longer than 500 kb. In any case, recombined DNA segments can be smaller than 25 kb and longer than 500 kb.

It will be further understood that causing the donor swine cells, tissues, and organs to express a known human MHC genotype or the recipient's MHC specifically as described herein, combined with the elimination in the donor swine cells of alpha-1,3-galactosytransferase, Neu5Gc, and β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase (B4GALNT2) (e.g., “single knockout,” “double knockout,” or “triple knockout”), presents a swine whose cells will have a decreased immunological rejection as compared to a triple knockout swine that lacks the specific SLA/MHC reprogramming of the present disclosure.

The immune response of the modified swine cells are evaluated through Mixed Lymphocyte Reaction (MLR) study. The impact of the modification or non-expression of MHC Ia polypeptides on the immune response are measured through the immune response of CD8+ T Cells. The impact of the modification of MHC Ib polypeptides on the immune response are measured through the immune response of NK Cells. The impact of the modification or non-expression of MHC II polypeptides on the immune response are measured through the immune response of CD4+ T Cells. The MLR study, herein, not only measures the efficacy of the site-directed mutagenic substitution, but also evaluates and identifies the impact of individual modifications, individually and as a whole, as measurements are taken iteratively as additional site-directed mutagenic substitutions are made.

For knock in cells, the desired sequences are knocked into the cell genome through insertion of genomic material using, e.g., homology-directed repair (HDR). To optimize expression of Class II molecules, the cells are incubated in porcine interferon gamma (IFN-γ) for 72 hours which stimulates expression. Expression is then measured by flow cytometry using target specific antibodies. Flow cytometry may include anti-HLA-C, HLA-E, HLA-G, or other HLA antibodies, or pan anti-HLA Class I or Class II antibodies. According to the present disclosure, cell surface HLA expression after knock-in is confirmed.

Complement Dependent Cytotoxicity (CDC) assays may be performed to determine if anti-HLA antibodies recognize the cells from the biological product of the present disclosure. Assay plates prepared by adding a specific human serum containing previously characterized anti-HLA antibodies (or control serum) can be used. IFN-γ treated donor cells are resuspended and added to the assay plates, incubated with a source of complement, e.g., rabbit serum. After at least 1 hour of incubation at room temperature, acridine orange/ethidium bromide solution is added. Percent cytotoxicity is determined by counting dead and live cells visualized on a fluorescent microscope, subtracting spontaneous lysis values obtained in the absence of anti-HLA antibodies, and scoring with a scale.

When knocking out or otherwise silencing surface sugar glycans, a cell line that does not express the sugar moieties is obtained, so there is no binding of natural preformed antibodies found in human serum. This is detected using flow cytometry and human serum and a labeled goat anti human IgG or IgM antibody; or specific antibodies directed against sugars. The result is no binding of the antibodies to the final cell line. Positive control is the original cell line (WT) without genetic modifications. In addition, a molecular analysis demonstrates changes in those genes.

In knocking out or otherwise silencing expression of SLA Class I molecules using CRISPR technologies, the resulting cell line lacks the above sugar moieties as well as SLA Class I expression. Analysis by flow cytometry and molecular gene are performed to demonstrate no surface expression and changes made at the gene level. Cellular reactivity is assessed using a mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) with human PBMCs and the irradiated cell line. In comparison to the WT line, there is a reduction in the T cell proliferation, predominantly in the CD8+ T cells.

Reactivity against expression of SLA Class II molecules, DR and DQ is also minimized or eliminated (there is no porcine DP). Analysis is performed at the molecular level, cell surface expression, and in vitro reactivity with human PBMC. There is a significant downward modulation of reactivity against the resulting cell line.

To test for cellular reactivity, all cells are incubated with porcine IFN-γ for 72 hours then human CD4+ T cells are added to porcine cell lines and cultured for 7 days. The readout is a form of activation/proliferation depending on the resources available.

To observe a specific response to DQ, human antigen presenting cells (APCs) are absent from the culture such that the cellular response is not the result of pig antigens presented by the APCs.

Creation of a Humanized, “Bespoke”, Designated-Pathogen Free, (Non-Human) Donor of Cells, Tissues, and Organs for Transplantation

Others have attempted to develop homozygous transgenic pigs, which is a slow process, requiring as long as three years using traditional methods of homologous recombination in fetal fibroblasts followed by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), and then breeding of heterozygous transgenic animals to yield a homozygous transgenic pig. The attempts at developing those transgenic pigs for xenotransplantation has been hampered by the lack of pluripotent stem cells, relying instead on the fetal fibroblast as the cell upon which genetic engineering was carried out. For instance, the production of the first live pigs lacking any functional expression of α(1,3) galactosyltransferase (GTKO) was first reported in 2000. In contrast to such prior attempts, the present disclosure provides a faster and fundamentally different process for making non-transgenic reprogrammed swine as disclosed herein. In some aspects, porcine fetal fibroblast cells are reprogrammed using gene editing, e.g., by using CRISPR/Cas for precise reprogramming and transferring a nucleus of the genetically modified porcine fetal fibroblast cell to a porcine enucleated oocyte to generate an embryo; and d) transferring the embryo into a surrogate pig and growing the transferred embryo to the genetically modified pig in the surrogate pig.

Upon confirmation of study results, genetically reprogrammed pigs are bred so that several populations of pigs are bred, each population having one of the desirable human cellular modifications determined from the above assays. The pigs' cellular activity after full growth is studied to determine if the pig expresses the desired traits to avoid rejection of the pigs' cells and tissues after xenotransplantation. Thereafter, further genetically reprogrammed pigs are bred having more than one of the desirable human cellular modifications to obtain pigs expressing cells and tissues that will not be rejected by the human patient's body after xenotransplantation.

The generation of an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) from pigs offers an opportunity beyond the use of primary cells from fetal fibroblasts. The ability of iPSC to proliferate almost indefinitely, which contrasts with the limited number of cell divisions that primary somatic cells can undergo before they senesce, likely means that the iPSC will tolerate the multiple selection steps needed to accommodate directed changes in several genes, especially for gene knock-outs and knock-ins, before nuclear transfer. Another advantage of iPSC over somatic cells is that it has been predicted that cloning efficiency should be inversely correlated with differentiation state and associated epigenetic state. The PAM cells presented in this disclosure are a transformed cell line but the genetic engineering schema can be transferred to porcine iPSC. The specific genetically modified iPSC line would then be used for somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), transferring a nucleus of the genetically modified porcine fetal fibroblast cell to a porcine enucleated oocyte to generate an embryo; and transferring the embryo into a surrogate pig and growing the transferred embryo to the genetically modified pig in the surrogate pig. This has the advantage in that the transferred nucleus contains the specific genome, hence the piglets do not need to go through breeding to obtain a homozygous offspring. The genotype and phenotype of the piglets are identical to the iPSC.

Specific populations of gene modified iPSC can be cryopreserved as a specific cell line and used as required for development of pigs needed for that genetic background. Thawed iPSCs are cultured and nucleus is transferred into enucleated oocytes to generate blastocysts/embryos for implantation into surrogate pig. This creates a viable bank of genetically modified iPSC for generation of pigs required for patient specific tissue, organ, or cell transplantation.

Restated, the former/previous approach to this unmet clinical need has precisely followed the classic medical dogma of “one-size fits all”. Instead of following this limited approach, we pragmatically demonstrate the ability to harness present technological advances and fundamental principles to achieve a “patient-specific” solution which dramatically improves clinical outcome measures. The former, we refer as the “downstream” approach—which must contend with addressing all of the natural immune processes in sequence. The latter, our approach, we optimistically term the “upstream” approach—one which represents the culmination of unfilled scientific effort into a coordinated translational effort.

In another aspect, disclosed herein is a method for making a genetically modified animal described in the application, comprising: a) obtaining a cell with reduced expression of one or more of a component of a MHC I-specific enhanceosome, a transporter of a MHC I-binding peptide, and/or C3; b) generating an embryo from the cell; and c) growing the embryo into the genetically modified animal. In some cases, the cell is a zygote.

In certain aspects, HLA/MHC sequence-reprogrammed swine are bred for at least one generation, or at least two generations, before their use as a source for live tissues, organs and/or cells used in xenotransplantation. In certain aspects, the CRISPR/Cas9 components can also be utilized to inactivate genes responsible for PERV activity, e.g., the pol gene, thereby simultaneously completely eliminating PERV from the swine donors.

In certain aspects, the present disclosure includes embryogenesis and live birth of SLA-free and HLA-expressing biologically reprogrammed swine. In certain aspects, the present disclosure includes breeding SLA-free and HLA-expressing biologically reprogrammed swine to create SLA-free and HLA-expressing progeny. In certain aspects, the CRISPR/Cas9 components are injected into swine zygotes by intracytoplasmic microinjection of porcine zygotes. In certain aspects, the CRISPR/Cas9 components are injected into swine prior to selective breeding of the CRISPR/Cas9 genetically modified swine. In certain aspects, the CRISPR/Cas9 components are injected into donor swine prior to harvesting cells, tissues, zygotes, and/or organs from the swine. In certain aspects, the CRISPR/Cas9 components include all necessary components for controlled gene editing including self-inactivation utilizing governing gRNA molecules as described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,834,791 (Zhang), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Upon confirmation of study results, genetically reprogrammed pigs are bred so that several populations of pigs are bred, each population having one of the desirable human cellular modifications determined from the above assays. The pigs' cellular activity after full growth is studied to determine if the pig expresses the desired traits to avoid rejection of the pigs' cells and tissues after xenotransplantation. Thereafter, further genetically reprogrammed pigs are bred having more than one of the desirable human cellular modifications to obtain pigs expressing cells and tissues that will not be rejected by the human patient's body after xenotransplantation.

Any of the above protocols or similar variants thereof can be described in various documentation associated with a medical product. This documentation can include, without limitation, protocols, statistical analysis plans, investigator brochures, clinical guidelines, medication guides, risk evaluation and mediation programs, prescribing information and other documentation that may be associated with a pharmaceutical product. It is specifically contemplated that such documentation may be physically packaged with cells, tissues, reagents, devices, and/or genetic material as a kit, as may be beneficial or as set forth by regulatory authorities.

In another aspect, disclosed herein is a method for making a genetically modified animal described in the application, comprising: a) obtaining a cell with reduced expression of one or more of a component of a MHC I-specific enhanceosome, a transporter of a MHC I-binding peptide, and/or C3; b) generating an embryo from the cell; and c) growing the embryo into the genetically modified animal. In some cases, the cell is a zygote.

Muscle and skin tissue samples taken from each of these pigs were dissected and cultured to grow out the fibroblast cells. The cells were then harvested and used for somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) to produce clones. Multiple fetuses (up to 8) were harvested on day 30. Fetuses were separately dissected and plated on 150 mm dishes to grow out the fetal fibroblast cells. Throughout culture, fetus cell lines were kept separate and labeled with the fetus number on each tube or culture vessel. When confluent, cells were harvested and frozen at about 1 million cells/mL in FBS with 10% DMSO for liquid nitrogen cryo-storage.

Added from different example: In certain aspects, the CRISPR/Cas9 components are injected into swine oocytes, ova, zygotes, or blastocytes prior to transfer into foster mothers.

Creation of, Procurement of Personalized, Tolerogenic Cells, Tissues, and Organs Donor of Cells, Tissues, and Organs for Transplantation from Humanized, “Bespoke”, Designated-Pathogen Free, (Non-Human) Donor Source Animal Facility (“SAF”)

Referring to FIG. 37, a barrier source animal location, including, but not limited to, a Source Animal Facility (“SAF”) 100, that can be used for the housing, propagation, maintenance, care and utilization of a closed colony swine, including a closed colony that is designated pathogen free (“DPF”) (“DPF Closed Colony”) 102, is shown. As contained herein, the SAF has positive pressure, biocontainment characteristics is operated under specific isolation-barrier conditions.

As described herein, the DPF Closed Colony 102 is comprised of source animals maintained and propagated for harvesting various biological products for use in human xenotransplantation and other therapies, wherein such products have reduced bioburden and demonstrate reduced immunogenicity resulting from xenotransplantation and other therapeutic procedures. In some aspects, xenotransplantation products of the present disclosure are less immunogenic than a xenotransplantation product made from conventional Gal-T knockout swine, from conventional triple knockout swine, from transgenic swine, from wild-type animals, and/or allograft. For example, as shown in Examples 1 and 2, biological products made according to the present disclosure provided unexpectedly high clinical benefit when using a single knockout pig as the donor animal in that, despite the presence of Neu5Gc and porcine B4GALNT2, the biological product made according to the present disclosure had less immunogenicity than allograft, vascularized, and was resistant to rejection for the entire duration of the study period.

As further described herein, the SAF 100 and each of its accompanying areas (e.g., rooms, suites or other areas) can be utilized to house and maintain source animals from which biological products are harvested and/or processed. The SAF 100 and its areas are designed to minimize and eliminate the potential for contamination of the harvested and/or processed biological products and cross-contamination between such products.

Within the SAF 100, in some aspects, utilized animal areas are ventilated. For example, animal areas are ventilated with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA)-filtered fresh air from the roof of the building, for example, having at least 10-15 air changes per hour. Additionally, one or more laminar flow hoods (e.g., Class II Type A2 Laminar Airflow Biosafety Cabinets) are utilized in the SAF rooms, including in a xenotransplantation drug processing suite to providing additional ventilation to minimize or eliminate cross contamination.

In some aspects, utilized areas are also temperature controlled and monitored. For example, the areas are heated and cooled to maintain temperature within the range specified by, for example, the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. Utilized animal holding rooms are also alarmed and centrally monitored for high or low temperatures, and staff are notified immediately if temperatures are beyond required temperature.

In some aspects, the SAF 100 has multiple levels of containment for the source animals. For example, source animals are contained in a primary level of containment consisting of pens and cages which are secured by stainless steel latches. With respect to secondary level of containment, functionally designated areas (e.g., rooms, suites or other areas) can have latched inner doors, and an ante-room with card-controlled access to a hallway. A tertiary level of containment can include outside perimeter fencing.

The entire SAF is located within a single building. Primary entrance is through a single door via programmable identification (ID) card. All other external doors are alarmed, remain locked, and are for emergency use only.

Security is also a consideration to ensure security of the SAF 100 in general, and to control individuals entering the SAF 100 to minimize the risk of outside contaminants entering the SAF 100 and reaching the source animals. Therefore, in one aspect, the primary entrance to the SAF 100 is through a single door 116 via programmable identification (ID) card 118. All other external doors 120 are alarmed, remain locked, and are for emergency use only.

It will be understood that the SAF 100 and its features as disclosed herein are set out as examples, and it will be further understood that other facilities with various features can also be utilized to perform the methods and produce the products disclosed herein.

In some aspects, the SAF 100 animal program is licensed and/or accredited and overseen, evaluated and operated by a team of highly experienced, professional staff. For example, the program is registered and/or accredited with the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (as a licensed animal research facility), National Institute of Health (NIH) Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW) (confirming compliance with Public Health and Safety (PHS) regulations, Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC) (with veterinary care of the source animals housed at the SAF under the direction of an attending veterinarian), and other federal, state and local regulatory authorities.

In some aspects, to ensure the welfare of the source animals, SAF personnel, and caretakers of source animals adhere to procedures for animal husbandry, tissue harvesting, and termination of animals that are approved by an appropriate Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee, in accordance with the Animal Welfare Act (7 U.S.C. 2131, et seq.), accredited by the AAALAC, and in compliance of the standards as set forth in the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.

In some aspects, caretakers have extensive training and experience in handling and caring for the source animals being managed in accordance with the present invention. For example, each caretaker undergoes a documented training program covering the standard operating procedures governing handling and care of these source animals, and be skilled in making daily health assessments and insuring prompt care is directed to any animal in need. In addition, the caretakers can be trained in scrubbing and gowning procedures prior to entry into the isolation areas (e.g., rooms, suites or other areas) as described herein, and under a medical surveillance program to ensure staff health and the health of the source animals.

To minimize and eliminate contamination risk to the SAF, any personnel or visitors entering the SAF wear personnel protective equipment or change into facility dedicated clothing and footwear before entry into any containment areas. Visitors who wish to enter animal areas must not have had any contact with live swine for at least 24 hours preceding the visit or must shower at the facility prior to entry.

It will be understood that the approaches and procedures set forth herein are examples as to how to ensure contamination does not reach the source animals within SAF 100. It will be further understood that a multitude of approaches can also be utilized to achieve a designated pathogen free environment for source animals.

Source Animals

In some aspects, as described herein, swine can be utilized as source animals. As used herein, unless otherwise specified, the terms “swine,” “pig” and “porcine” are generic terms referring to the same type of animal without regard to gender, size, or breed. It will be understood that any number of source animals could be utilized in accordance with the present invention, including, but not limited to, pigs, non-human primates, monkeys, sheep, goats, mice, cattle, deer, horses, dogs, cats, rats, mules, and any other mammals. Source animals could also include any other animals including, but not limited to, birds, fish, reptiles, and amphibians.

It will be further understood that any animal serving as a source animal hereunder, including swine, regardless of how such swine may be configured, engineered, or otherwise altered and/or maintained, may be created, bred, propagated and/or maintained in accordance with the present disclosure to create and maintain animals and resulting biological products to be used in or in preparation or pursuit of clinical xenotransplantation.

For example, the present disclosure includes non-human animals, e.g., swine, having certain combinations of specific genetic characteristics, breeding characteristics and pathogen-free profile. Such animals may include, as described above and herein, immunogenomic reprogrammed swine having a biologically reprogrammed genome such that it does not express one or more extracellular surface glycan epitopes, e.g., genes encoding alpha-1,3 galactosyltransferase, cytidine monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase (CMAH), and β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase are disrupted such that surface glycan epitopes encoded by said genes are not expressed, as well as other modifications to the swine's SLA to express MHC-I or MHC-II, and regulation of PD-1 and CTLA4, as described above and herein. Resulting from the process described herein, the swine is free of at least the following zoonotic pathogens:

-   -   (i) Ascaris species, cryptosporidium species, Echinococcus,         Strongyloids sterocolis, and Toxoplasma gondii in fecal matter;     -   (ii) Leptospira species, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, porcine         reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV),         pseudorabies, transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGE)/Procine         Respiratory Coronavirus, Toxoplasma Gondii in antibody titers;     -   (iii) Porcine Influenza;     -   (iv) the following bacterial pathogens as determined by         bacterial culture: Bordetella bronchisceptica,         Coagulase-positive staphylococci, Coagulase-negative         staphylococci, Livestock-associated methicillin resistant         Staphylococcus aureus (LA MRSA), Microphyton and Trichophyton         spp.;     -   (v) Porcine cytomegalovirus; and     -   (vi) Brucella suis;         is raised and maintained according to a bioburden-reducing         procedure, the procedure comprising maintaining the swine in an         isolated closed herd, wherein all other animals in the isolated         closed herd are confirmed to be free of said zoonotic pathogens;         wherein the swine is isolated from contact with any non-human         animals and animal housing facilities outside of the isolated         closed herd.

As indicated previously, in some aspects, the swine source animals may have a combination of one or more genetic modifications including “knockout” and/or ““knock-in” swine having one or more characteristics of swine disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,795,493 (“Phelps”), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Such swine lack active (and/or have disrupted) α-(1,3) galactosyl epitopes responsible for hyperacute rejection in humans upon transplantation. Multiple methods of production of knockout/knock-in swine are disclosed in Phelps including: the inactivation of one or both alleles of the alpha-1,3-GT gene by one or more point mutations (for example by a T-to-G point mutation at the second base of exon 9) and/or genetic targeting events as disclosed at col. 9, line 6 to col. 10, line 13; col. 21, line 53 to co1.28, line 47; and col. 31, line 48 to col. 38, line 22 of Phelps, incorporated herein by reference. The creation of such swine through the described methods, and/or the utilization of such swine and progeny following creation, can be employed in the practice of the present invention, including, but not limited to, utilizing organs, tissue and/or cells derived from such swine.

Similarly, in other aspects, the swine source animals include “knockout” and “knock-in” swine having one or more characteristics of swine disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,547,816 (“Day”), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Such swine also lack active (and/or have disrupted) α-(1,3) galactosyl epitopes responsible for hyper-acute rejection in humans upon transplantation. Multiple methods of production of knockout/knock-in swine are disclosed in Day including: enucleating an oocyte, fusing the oocyte with a porcine cell having a non-functional alpha-1,3-GT gene, followed by implantation into a surrogate mother, as described more fully at col. 4, line 61 to col. 18, line 55 of Day, incorporated herein by reference. The creation of such swine through the described methods, and/or the utilization of such swine and progeny following creation, can be employed in the practice of the present invention, including, but not limited to, utilizing organs, tissue and/or cells derived from such swine.

Similarly, in other aspects, the swine source animals include GGTA Null (“knockouts” and “knock-ins”) swine having one or more characteristics of swine disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,547,522 (“Hawley”), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Such swine also lack active (and/or have disrupted) α-(1,3) galactosyl epitopes responsible for hyper-acute rejection in humans upon transplantation. As disclosed in Hawley, production of knockout/knock-in swine includes utilizing homologous recombination techniques, and enucleating oocytes followed by fusion with a cell having a non-functional alpha-1,3-GT gene and implantation into a surrogate mother (as disclosed more fully at col. 6, line 1 to col. 14, line 31). The creation of such swine through the described methods, and/or the utilization of such swine and progeny following creation, can be employed in the practice of the present invention, including, but not limited to, utilizing organs, tissue and/or cells derived from such swine.

In yet other aspects, the swine source animals include swine and swine that lack active (and/or have disrupted) α-(1,3) galactosyl epitopes having one or more characteristics of swine as described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,883,939 (“Yamada”), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. In certain aspects, the swine source animals for use or modification in accordance with the present disclosure include the swine having one or more characteristics of swine described in U.S. 2018/0184630 (Tector, III), the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. The creation of such swine through the described methods, and/or the utilization of such swine and progeny following creation, can be employed in the practice of the present invention, including, but not limited to, utilizing organs, tissue and/or cells derived from such swine.

In yet other aspects, swine source animals include the swine having one or more characteristics of swine disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,106,251 (Ayares), U.S. Pat. No. 6,469,229 (Sachs), U.S. Pat. No. 7,141,716 (Sachs), each of the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein. The creation of such swine through the described methods, and/or the utilization of such swine and progeny following creation, can be employed in the practice of the present invention, including, but not limited to, utilizing organs, tissue and/or cells derived from such swine.

In some aspects, the swine can originate from one or more highly inbred herds of pigs (whether genetically modified or not (i.e., wild-type)) with a co-efficient of inbreeding of 0.50 or greater. A higher coefficient of inbreeding indicates the products derived from the source animals may have more consistent biological properties for use in pig-to-human xenotransplantation (e.g., a coefficient of inbreeding of 0.80 or greater in one aspect). Coefficients of inbreeding for animals are disclosed in Mezrich et al., “Histocompatible Miniature Swine: An Inbred Large-Animal Model,” Transplantation, 75(6):904-907 (2003). An example of a highly inbred herd of swine includes miniature swine descendant from the miniature swine disclosed in Sachs, et al., “Transplantation in Miniature Swine. I. Fixation of the Major Histocompatibility Complex,” Transplantation 22:559 (1976), which is a highly inbred line possessing reasonable size matches particularly for organs eventually utilized for clinical transplantation. The creation of such swine through the described methods, and/or the utilization of such swine and progeny following creation, can be employed in the practice of the present invention, including, but not limited to, utilizing organs, tissue and/or cells derived from such swine.

Source animals can also include animals swine that lack active (and/or have disrupted) alpha-1,3-galactosyltransferase, Neu5Gc, and β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase as described in U.S. Patent Publication No. US2017/0311579 (Tector), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The creation of such swine through the described methods, and/or the utilization of such swine and progeny following creation, can be employed in the practice of the present invention, including, but not limited to, utilizing organs, tissue and/or cells derived from such swine.

It is therefore understood that multiple source animals, with an array of biological properties including, but not limited to, genome modification and/or other genetically engineered properties, can be utilized to reduce immunogenicity and/or immunological rejection (e.g., acute, hyperacute, and chronic rejections) in humans resulting from xenotransplantation. In certain aspects, the present disclosure can be used to reduce or avoid thrombotic microangiopathy by transplanting the biological product of the present disclosure into a human patient. In certain aspects, the present disclosure can be used to reduce or avoid glomerulopathy by transplanting the biological product of the present disclosure into a human patient. It will be further understood that the listing of source animals set forth herein is not limiting, and the present invention encompasses any other type of source animal with one or more modifications (genetic or otherwise) that serve(s) to reduce immunogenicity and/or immunological rejection, singularly or in combination.

In some embodiments, preterm swine fetuses and neonatal piglets are derived as offspring from DPF Closed Colony, α-1,3-galactosyltransferase [Gal-T] knockout pigs, as shown and described herein in accordance with the present invention.

Such preterm swine fetuses and neonatal piglets are utilized as a source for cells, tissues and organs for xenotransplantation therapies, including, but not limited to, in regenerative or direct transplantation therapies. It will be understood that such cells, tissues and organs can be utilized as fresh or following cryopreservation in accordance with the present invention (e.g., cryopreservation in the range of −80° C.).

In one aspect, mesenchymal cells, pluripotent cells, stem cells and/or other cells that have not differentiated are harvested from such preterm swine fetuses and utilized for regenerative therapies and other therapies as described herein, whereas such undifferentiated cells can be found in high proportion in swine fetuses as well as in neonatal piglets. Since these cells are derived from fetuses earlier along the gestation period, they are less differentiated and more pliable which offers greater potential for regenerative therapies. Furthermore, since these cells may be derived from DPF Closed Colony, α-1,3-galactosyltransferase [Gal-T] knockout pigs, as shown and described herein, they do not possess aggravating immunogenic, pathogenic and/or other aggravating factors causing rejection by the human immune system, and the cells will persist and differentiate inside a human recipient offering regain of function of growth of model tissue using these genetic and cellular building blocks.

By way of example, such cells may be utilized to generate an array of organs and/or tissues, through regenerative cell-therapy methods known in the art (e.g., through utilization of biological scaffolds), for xenotransplantation including, but not limited to, skin, kidneys, liver, brain, adrenal glands, anus, bladder, blood, blood vessels, bones, brain, brain, cartilage, ears, esophagus, eye, glands, gums, hair, heart, hypothalamus, intestines, large intestine, ligaments, lips, lungs, lymph, lymph nodes and lymph vessels, mammary glands, mouth, nails, nose, ovaries, oviducts, pancreas, penis, pharynx, pituitary, pylorus, rectum, salivary glands, seminal vesicles, skeletal muscles, skin, small intestine, smooth muscles, spinal cord, spleen, stomach, suprarenal capsule, teeth, tendons, testes, thymus gland, thyroid gland, tongue, tonsils, trachea, ureters, urethra, uterus, uterus, and vagina, areolar, blood, adenoid, bone, brown adipose, cancellous, cartaginous, cartilage, cavernous, chondroid, chromaffin, connective tissue, dartoic, elastic, epithelial, epithelium, fatty, fibrohyaline, fibrous, Gamgee, Gelatinous, Granulation, gut-associated lymphoid, Haller's vascular, hard hemopoietic, indifferent, interstitial, investing, islet, lymphatic, lymphoid, mesenchymal, mesonephric, mucous connective, multilocular adipose, muscle, myeloid, nasion soft, nephrogenic, nerve, nodal, osseous, osteogenic, osteoid, periapical, reticular, retiform, rubber, skeletal muscle, smooth muscle, and subcutaneous tissue.

Accordingly, preterm swine fetuses and neonatal piglets may be utilized as a source of tissue, cells and organs in accordance with the present invention based on their characteristics as compared to adult swine.

Closed Colonies General Closed Colony

Referring now to FIG. 37, in one aspect, animals are secured from the outside to consider as candidates to add to the General Closed Colony 128 that is housed within the SAF 100 to help propagate the DPF Closed Colony 102 also housed within the SAF 100 in a separate isolation area 152. Transportation of the animals secured from the outside to the SAF is controlled to mitigate exposure to potential infectious agents. Such mitigation techniques include, but are not limited to, using a sterilized HEPA filtered cage during transport using a van cleaned with chlorhexidine and containing no other animals.

Candidate animals are initially quarantined to check health status and suitability for intake into the General Closed Colony 128. For example, in some aspects, animals coming from the outside are first housed in a quarantine intake area 130 within the SAF and accompanied by a complete health record (including, but not limited to, date of birth, vaccinations, infections, and antibiotic history), pedigree, and results of genetic tests. These animals reside in the quarantine intake area 130 for at least seven (7) days as the accompanying records are evaluated and other health screening measures are taken, including screening for some infectious agents.

In some aspects, animals with poor health, questionable medical status, or are not able to be treated for such medical issues, will not be accepted into the General Closed Colony 128 and/or will otherwise be culled from the quarantine area 130. Examples of acceptance criteria include, but are not limited to: (a) source animals are not born with any congenital defect that was unanticipated from the herd and that could have impacted the quality of health of the animal; (b) source animals have received all vaccinations according to age and the vaccinations were killed agents; (c) any infections that occurred in the source animal's lifetime have been reviewed as well as the clinical intervention, and it was determined that the infection and any treatment (if applicable) did not impact the quality of the health of the animal; (d) results of the surveillance testing has been reviewed and it has been verified that the source animal has been tested within the last 3 months (with all source animals tested at sacrifice and all tests must be negative); (e) if the animal was injured in any way which required medical attention, a review has been conducted and it has been confirmed that the impact of the injury and the medical intervention (if applicable) had no impact on the health of the animal; and/or (f) PERV tests have been performed and results recorded.

In some aspects, animals that pass this screening process and timetable are moved out of the quarantine intake area 130 and into a general holding area 132 within the SAF 100 to join or create an existing or newly formed General Closed Colony 128. It will be understood that the general holding area 132 is kept under closed colony conditions substantially similar to the conditions applied to the DPF Closed Colony 102 in the DPF Isolation Area 152.

It will be further understood that, excluding their offspring, candidate animals secured from the outside will never become members of the DPF Closed Colony. Piglets from the General Closed Colony 128 animals will be utilized to create and/or propagate the DPF Closed Colony as further described herein.

DPF Closed Colony Pregnant Sows and DPF Piglets

In one aspect, pregnant sows 134 (or gilts) are obtained from the outside or from the General Closed Colony 128 to produce piglets to create and/or add to the DPF Closed Colony 102 herd. For example, in one aspect, sows 134 are placed in a sow quarantine area 136 within the SAF until the time to give birth, in this aspect via Cesarean section in order to avoid exposing the piglet to potential pathogens, including Porcine Cytomegalovirus (pCMV). Contraction of pCMV in piglets can occur when the piglets travel through the vagina of the sow during natural birth. The piglets, by virtue of their birthing through Cesarean section as described herein, prevents such contraction and the piglets produced through the methods described herein are pCMV-free.

Prior to the Cesarean section procedure, for example the morning of the procedure, an operating room 138 within the SAF 100 prepared according to standard operating room protocols in a sterile environment with 2 sides: Side A 140 for the Cesarean section of the sow, and Side B 142 to receive the piglets 144 that are candidates to either found or add to the DPF Closed Colony.

The sow 134 is brought into the operating room 138 for captive bolt euthanasia. Immediately following this, the sow 134 is placed in the left lateral decubitus position and the abdomen and torso are prepped widely with chlorhexidine and draped in a sterile fashion. A flank incision is expeditiously made and the abdominal muscles are split in order to gain access into the peritoneum. The uterus is exteriorized, incised and the piglets 144 are removed after doubly clamping and dividing the umbilical cord. Immediate execution of the surgical procedures following captive bolt euthanasia is critical to the survival of the piglets 144.

Infection controls for the piglets 144 are implemented at birth. The piglets 144 are placed in a warmed 1% chlorhexidine (or other sterilization agent, such as betadine) in sterile saline bath solution and then passed over to piglet handlers to a resuscitation area 148 for resuscitation, rewarming and gavage feeding of the first dose of colostrum. The sow's 134 carcass is closed by staff with suture and disposed of following appropriate procedures.

The piglets 144 are subsequently quarantined in a separate sterile piglet quarantine room 150 then transferred to a designated pathogen free isolation area (“DPF Isolation Area”) 152 to either create or join the DPF Closed Colony 102. It will be understood that the DPF Isolation Area 152 can be of any size suitable to manage and maintain the DPF Closed Colony to the extent needed for breeding, rearing, birthing, harvesting, and overall management as described herein.

In one aspect, the DPF Isolation Area 152 that supports the DPF Closed Colony is a restricted access, positive-pressure barrier isolation suite, approximately 500 ft², with an animal husbandry capacity to support at least 9 animals (up to 20 kg each), inside the larger SAF 100. It will be understood that the DPF Isolation Area 152 can be significantly larger than this, and can include multiple areas (including, but not limited to, multiple rooms and suites), depending on the need of the number of source animals and demand for products, in accordance with the products and methods as described herein.

In some aspects, tracking of piglets is performed and piglets are handled under designated pathogen free conditions in the DPF Isolation Area 152. For example, handling of piglets is performed wearing personal protective equipment (“PPE”) in the DPF Isolation Area 152, including face mask, gloves, shoe covers, and hair bonnet. The animals are handled by clean personnel, personnel who have not entered any animal room or facility where other swine are housed. For tracking, piglets are ear notched 3 days after birth and ear tagged with hand-labeled plastic ear tags at weaning (usually 3-5 weeks).

It will be understood that some piglets are raised in the DPF Closed Colony 102 in the DPF Isolation Area 152 as a source for xenotransplantation products, and some piglets in the DPF Closed Colony 102 are allowed to mature and be used to propagate the General Closed Colony 128. In the event of propagation of the General Closed Colony 128, the matured animal is removed from the DPF Isolation Area 152 and added to the General Closed Colony 128 for breeding. Since the DPF Isolation Area 152 is controlled to be DPF, once these or any other animals leave DPF Isolation Area 152, those animals never return to the DPF Isolation Area 152.

Precautions are taken to prevent the exposure of any animals within the DPF Closed Colony 102 to contamination (for example, blood, blood products or tissues obtained from animals outside the DPF Closed Colony 102). If any animals within the DPF Closed Colony 102 are inadvertently exposed to blood, blood products, or tissues obtained from animals outside the DPF Closed Colony 102, those animals are removed from the DPF Closed Colony 102 and will never return to the DPF Closed Colony 102. Aseptic techniques and sterile equipment for all parenteral interventions are used, and routine procedures such as vaccinations, treatment with drugs or biologics, phlebotomy, and biopsies are performed. The DPF Isolation Area 152 is restricted by card access only to specially authorized and trained staff.

In another aspect of the invention, in some aspects, newborn piglets are handled and hand-reared by trained and gowned staff in the DPF Isolation Area 152 to ensure their health and that they are maintained as designated pathogen free.

Propagation

The DPF Closed Colony 102 can be propagated in multiple ways. For example, as described herein, sows 134 may be taken from the outside or General Closed Colony 128, quarantined, and have their piglets 144 delivered via Cesarean section, with the piglets resuscitated, sterilized, quarantined, and placed into the DPF Isolation Area 152. Newborn piglets may be maintained at 26-30° C. or 80-85° F. In some aspects, heat lamps are used to keep animals warm. Newborn piglets are initially housed in sterilized medium crates in the SAF with sterile towels/drapes on the bottom.

The DPF Closed Colony 102 may also be propagated in other ways. For example, in one aspect, the DPF Closed Colony 102 is propagated through natural intercourse amongst the animals in the DPF Closed Colony 102 occurring entirely within the DPF Isolation Area 152. It will be understood that pregnancies may also occur in the DPF Closed Colony 102 within the DPF Isolation Area 152 as a result of artificial insemination or other breeding techniques that do not involve natural intercourse.

In such aspects, pregnant sows 154 (or gilts) in the DPF Closed Colony 102 within the DPF Isolation Area 152 carry the entire pregnancy and piglets are delivered through live vaginal birth and Caesarian section is not necessary. Importantly, the piglets resulting from natural intercourse and live vaginal birth within the DPF Isolation Area 152 are designated pathogen free, including no infection by pCMV.

Following the live vaginal birth, piglets are immediately taken away from the sow to prevent the sows from harming the piglets. The piglets are then hand-reared from birth by humans within the DPF Isolation Area 152 in the methods as described herein.

In the case of mating in the DPF Closed Colony 102 or General Closed Colony 128, the breeding of swine disclosed herein is typically homozygous to homozygous breeding. Females are given hormones two weeks before gestation then throughout pregnancy. Furthermore, as with the DPF Closed Colony 102, the General Closed Colony 128 may also be propagated through natural intercourse amongst the animals in the General Closed Colony 128, and may also occur as a result of artificial insemination or other assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) that do not involve natural intercourse.

Various techniques have been developed and refined to obtain a large number of offspring from genetically superior animals or obtain offspring from infertile (or subfertile) animals. These techniques include: artificial insemination, cryopreservation (freezing) of gametes or embryos, induction of multiple ovulations, embryo transfer, in vitro fertilization, sex determination of sperm or embryos, nuclear transfer, cloning, etc.

Artificial insemination (AI) has been used to obtain offspring from genetically superior males for more than 200 years. Improvements in methods to cryopreserve (freeze) and store semen have made AI accessible to more livestock producers. In the same manner as cryopreservation of semen, embryo freezing allowed for the global commercialization of animals with high genetic qualities.

Multiple ovulation and embryo transfer: Development of embryo transfer technology allows producers to obtain multiple progeny from genetically superior females. Depending on the species, fertilized embryos can be recovered from females (also called embryo donors) of superior genetic merit by surgical or nonsurgical techniques. The genetically superior embryos are then transferred to females (also called embryo recipients) of lesser genetic merit. In cattle and horses, efficient techniques recover fertilized embryos without surgery, but only one or sometimes two embryos are produced during each normal reproductive cycle. In swine and sheep, embryos must be recovered by surgical techniques. To increase the number of embryos that can be recovered from genetically superior females, the embryo donor is treated with a hormone regimen to induce multiple ovulations, or superovulation.

In vitro Fertilization: As an alternative to collecting embryos from donor animals, methods have been developed recently to produce embryos in vitro (in the laboratory). The methods are also called in vitro embryo production. Immature oocytes (female eggs) can be obtained from ovaries of infertile or aged females, or from regular embryo donors (described above). Ovum (egg) pick up is a nonsurgical technique that uses ultrasound and a guided needle to aspirate immature oocytes from the ovaries. Once the immature oocytes have been removed from the ovary, they are matured, fertilized, and cultured in vitro for up to seven days until they develop to a stage that is suitable for transfer or freezing.

Since the mid 1980s, technology has been developed to transfer the nucleus from either a blastomere (cells from early, and presumably undifferentiated cleavage stage embryos) or a somatic cell (fibroblast, skin, heart, nerve, or other body cell) to an enucleated oocyte (unfertilized female egg cell with the nucleus removed). This “nuclear transfer” produces multiple copies of animals that are themselves nearly identical copies of other animals (transgenic animals, genetically superior animals, or animals that produce high quantities of milk or have some other desirable trait, etc.). This process is also referred to as cloning. To date, somatic cell nuclear transfer has been used to clone cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, horses, mules, cats, rabbits, rats, and mice.

The technique involves culturing somatic cells from an appropriate tissue (fibroblasts) from the animal to be cloned. Nuclei from the cultured somatic cells are then microinjected into an enucleated oocyte obtained from another individual of the same or a closely related species. Through a process that is not yet understood, the nucleus from the somatic cell is reprogrammed to a pattern of gene expression suitable for directing normal development of the embryo. After further culture and development in vitro, the embryos are transferred to a recipient female and ultimately result in the birth of live offspring. The success rate for propagating animals by nuclear transfer is often less than 10 percent and depends on many factors, including the species, source of the recipient ova, cell type of the donor nuclei, treatment of donor cells prior to nuclear transfer, the techniques used for nuclear transfer, etc.

Most commonly used ARTs rely on fertilization as a first step. This joining of egg and sperm is accompanied by the recombination of the genetic material from the sire and dam, and is often referred to as “shuffling the genetic deck.” It will be understood that these breeding techniques can be used either within the DPF Closed Colony, as a breeding step within the DPF Isolation Area 152, or could be used as a breeding step for females in the General Closed Colony and/or from the outside.

In the case of utilization of ART to impregnate females in the General Closed Colony, and/or a female from the outside, the birthing of piglets from such females can be as described herein, i.e., sows 134 may be taken from the outside or General Closed Colony 128, quarantined, and have their piglets 144 delivered via Cesarean section, with the piglets resuscitated, sterilized, quarantined, and placed into the DPF Isolation Area 152.

Maintenance of Closed Colonies

Designated pathogens may include any number of pathogens, including, but not limited to, viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, parasites, and/or prions (and/or other pathogens associated with transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs)). Designated pathogens could include, but not be limited to, any and all zoonotic viruses and viruses from the following families: adenoviridae, anelloviridae, astroviridae, calicivirdae, circoviridae, coronaviridae, parvoviridae, picornaviridae, and reoviridae.

Designated pathogens could also include, but not be limited to, adenovirus, arbovirus, arterivirus, bovine viral diarrhea virus, calicivirus, cardiovirus, circovirus 2, circovirus 1, coronavirus, encephalomyocarditus virus, eperytherozoon, haemophilus suis, herpes and herpes-related viruses, iridovirus, kobuvirus, leptospirillum, listeria, mycobacterium TB, mycoplasma, orthomyxovirus, papovirus, parainfluenza virus 3, paramyxovirus, parvovirus, pasavirus-1, pestivirus, picobirnavirus (PBV), picornavirus, porcine circovirus-like (po-circo-like) virus, porcine astrovirus, porcine bacovirus, porcine bocavirus-2, porcine bocavirus-4, porcine enterovirus-9, porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), porcine polio virus, porcine lymphotropic herpes virus (PLHV), porcine stool associated circular virus (PoSCV), posavirus-1, pox virus, rabies-related viruses, reovirus, rhabdovirus, rickettsia, sapelovirus, sapovirus, Staphylococcus hyicus, Staphylococcus intermedius, Staphylococcus epidermidis, coagulase-negative staphylococci, suipoxvirus, swine influenza, teschen, torovirus, torque teno sus virus-2 (TTSuV-2), transmissible gastroenteritus virus, vesicular stomatitis virus, and/or any and/or all other viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, parasites, and/or prions (and/or other pathogens associated with TSEs). In some aspects, particularly in swine herds, testing for TSEs is not performed because TSEs are not reported in natural conditions in swine. In other aspects, testing for TSEs is performed as part of the methods of the present disclosure.

There are huge numbers of pathogens that could possibly be tested for in animal herds, and there is no regulatory guidance or standard, or understanding in the field as to what specific group of pathogens should be tested for in donor animals, and which specific group of pathogens should be removed from donor animal populations in order to ensure safe and effective xenotransplantation. In other words, before the present disclosure, there was no finite number of identified, predictable pathogens to be tested for and excluded.

Importantly, the present disclosure provides a specific group of pathogens identified by the present inventors that are critical to exclude for safe and effective xenotransplantation, as set forth in the following Table 1.

TABLE 1 Test Pathogen Parasite Fecal Float Ascaris species Cryptosporidium species Echinococcus Strongyloids sterocolis Toxoplasma gondii Brucella BAPA (buffered Brucella suis acidified plate agglutination test) Lepto6 Screen Leptospira species M Hyo Mycoplasma Hyopneumoniae PRRS x3 ELISA Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) PRVgb Test Pseudorabies TGE/PRCV Test Porcine Respiratory Coronavirus Toxoplasmosis ELISA Toxoplasma Gondii Porcine Cytomegalovirus Porcine CMV PCR Porcine Influenza PCR Porcine Influenza A Nasal swab Bordetella bronchiseptica Skin culture Coagulase-positive staphylococci Skin culture Coagulase-negative staphylococci Skin culture Livestock-associated methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA MRSA) Skin culture Microphyton and Trichophyton spp. Porcine Endogenous Porcine Endogenous Retrovirus (PERV) C Retrovirus RT-PCR Assay (PERV C)

In certain aspects, a product of the present disclosure is sourced from animals having antibody titer levels below the level of detection for a plurality of or all of the pathogens discussed in the present disclosure. In certain aspects, subjects transplanted with a product of the present disclosure are tested and found to have antibody titer levels below the level of detection for a plurality of or all of the pathogens discussed in the present disclosure.

In some aspects, the present disclosure includes a method of testing for a specific group of pathogens consisting of no more than 18-35, e.g., 35, 34, 33, 32, 31, 30, 29, 28, 27, 26, 25, 24, 23, 22, 21, 20, 19, or 18 pathogens, the specific group of pathogens including each of the pathogens identified in Table 1. In some aspects, the present disclosure includes creating, maintaining and using donor animals that are free of the 18-35, e.g., 35, 34, 33, 32, 31, 30, 29, 28, 27, 26, 25, 24, 23, 22, 21, 20, 19, or 18 pathogens, the specific group of pathogens including each of the pathogens identified in Table 1.

As described herein, piglets born via live vaginal birth within the DPF Closed Colony 102 are not infected with pCMV, but are nonetheless tested for pCMV on a continuous basis. Testing for Porcine Cytomegalovirus (pCMV) and Porcine Endogenous Retrovirus (PERV), should be routine and continuous for screening and maintenance as described herein, and should occur routinely and continuously for the DPF Closed Colony. In some aspects of the present invention, the source animals described herein are positive for PERV A and B only, and some are positive for PERV A, B, and C. In other aspects, the source animals are free of PERV A, B and/or C (through utilization of CRISPR and other techniques).

With respect to PERV, it is understood that most, if not all, swine are known to be positive for PERV A and B. While PERV is recognized, the risk of transmission of PERV from treatment with swine derived tissue is expected to be rare. To date eight PERV mRNAs are expressed in all porcine tissues and in all breeds of swine and preclinical and clinical xenotransplantation studies of humans exposed to pig cells, tissues, and organs including pancreatic islets have failed to demonstrate transmission of PERV. See, e.g., Morozov Va., Wynyard S, Matsumoto S, Abalovich A, Denner J, Elliott R, “No PERV transmission during a clinical trial of pig islet cell transplantation,” Virus Res 2017; 227:34-40. In the unlikely event that a human infection should occur, PERV is susceptible in vitro to nucleoside and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors in common clinical use. See, e.g., Wilhelm M, Fishman JA, Pontikis R, Aubertin AM, Wilhelm FX, “Susceptibility of recombinant porcine endogenous retrovirus reverse transcriptase to nucleoside and non-nucleoside inhibitors,” Cellular & Molecular Life Sciences 2002; 59:2184-90; Schuurman, H., “Regulatory aspects of clinical xenotransplantation,” Int. J. Surg., 23, (2015), pp. 312-321. Experimental data using the xenotransplantation product of the present disclosure indicated that PERV genetic material was not detected in the recipient's organs and that porcine DNA and cells did not migrate into the circulation of the recipient from the xenotransplanted organ.

The DPF Closed Colony 102 is maintained to ensure that the animals remain designated pathogen free and that appropriate standards of animal care and well-being are applied at all levels of the SAF 100 (i.e., breeding, maintenance, propagation). No animal is permitted into the DPF Closed Colony if it or a parent has tested positive for any of the pathogens in Table 1. For example, continuous testing for pathogens and other biological markers occurs including the numerous pathogens identified herein (including, but not limited to, pCMV and other pathogens). Environmental and blood samples are collected as necessary for genotyping and testing for pathogens. Test result(s) obtained for pathogens or other health concerns are evaluated by the facility veterinarian who may recommend follow-up testing and observations, and quarantine of the facility or areas (e.g., rooms, suites or other areas) within a facility as needed. Careful documentation of any antimicrobial agents used during routine care of the source animals should be maintained, and exclusive use of killed vaccines used. Examples of antimicrobial agents include cefazolin, bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin.

In some aspects, routine health surveillance and screening for pathogens (e.g., adventitious agents) of source animals is performed every 3 months. Samples of serum, nasal swabs, and stool for each animal in the General and DPF Closed Colonies are obtained and provided for analytical tests for detection of such pathogens every 3 months. Source animal samples of serum, nasal swabs, and stool for testing are obtained immediately after euthanasia via captive bolt and evaluated as disclosed herein including one or more of: conducting a sterility assay and confirming that aerobic and anaerobic bacteria do not grow in the sterility assay; conducting a mycoplasma assay and confirming that mycoplasma colonies do not grow in the mycoplasma assay; conducting an endotoxin assay and confirming that the biological product is free of endotoxins in the endotoxin assay, conducting the MTT-reduction assay and confirming that the product has at least 50% cell viability in the MTT-reduction assay; conducting flow cytometry and confirming that the product does not have galactosyl-α-1,3-galactose epitopes as determined by the flow cytometry; conducting pathogen-detection assays specific for 18 to 35 pathogens and confirming that the product is free of Ascaris species, cryptosporidium species, Echinococcus, Strongyloids sterocolis, Toxoplasma gondii, Brucella suis, Leptospira species, mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome, pseudorabies, staphylococcus species, Microphyton species, Trichophyton species, porcine influenza, porcine cytomegalovirus, arterivirus, coronavirus, Bordetella bronchiseptica, and Livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

In some aspects, all swine undergo routine health monitoring, which includes documentation of all illnesses, medical care, procedures, drugs administered, vaccinations, physical examinations, any treatments received, and general health assessments and observations each day at time of feeding with a visual health inspection indicating the animal is able to stand, move freely and appears clinically normal, as well as observations relating to the animal's appearance, activity and appetite, recording on the Animal Husbandry Log any deficiencies. In some aspects, animals are vaccinated against Mycoplasma Hyopneumoniae, Hemophilus Parasuis, Streptococcus Suis, Pasteurella Multocida, Bordatella Bronchiseptica and Erysipelothrix Rhusiopathiae. All swine six months or older may be vaccinated against Erysipelothrix Rhusiopathiae, Leptospira (Canicola-Grippotyphosa-Hardjo-Icterohaemorrhagiae-Pomona), Influenza and Parvovirus. Repeat vaccination may be performed, e.g., every six months.

In some aspects, health monitoring will normally be performed as part of daily husbandry procedures for cleaning and feeding to minimize entry into swine holding areas (e.g., rooms, suites or other areas). Prior to entering, personnel must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure that their footwear is free from gross contamination (e.g. visible dirt or mud). They will then don disposable shoe/boot covers prior to entry. Personnel in contact with any animals not housed in the designated pathogen free facility will change PPE if contaminated. All implements (shovel, other necessary tools) will undergo chlorhexidine immersion of no less than 2 minutes if exogenous to vivarium and judged necessary. Solid waste and soiled bedding is removed. Animal holding areas are sanitized with diluted Quat-PV or bleach a minimum of once every two weeks.

In some aspects, bedding is replaced daily using irradiated bedding wood shavings. The replacement amount is an approximate equal amount to that which was removed. All bedding is completely replaced on a weekly basis at a minimum. Daily activities including health status checks, cleaning and water levels are documented in the Animal Husbandry log. Appropriately labeled trash and biological waste is picked up by staff daily and incinerated.

With regard to piglet, newborns are handled and cared for by trained and gowned staff in an isolation suite. All supplies, room and crates are sanitized prior to housing of the piglets. Sterile drapes and towels are used to line the bottom of the crates. Room temperature is controlled to 80-85° F. Animals crates are maintained at 85-95° F. through the use of heat lamps. Piglets are maintained in the crates through the first 2 weeks after which time piglets are housed on the floor with irradiated wood shavings. Crates are cleaned daily and shavings are removed and replenished daily. Piglets are initially fed fresh-made, sterile colostrum (Bovine Colostrum IgG formulated for swine, Sterling Nursemate ASAP or equivalent) using a feeding tube every 1 to 2 hours until piglet is self-feeding from feeder. During the early days, the piglet is weighed twice a day and well-being is checked and recorded twice a day. Starting at day 14, piglets are fed 3 times per day with a Milk Replacer (Ralco Birthright or equivalent) that is further supplemented with irradiated piglet grain (antibiotic free creep feed, Blue Seal 813 or equivalent). The amount each piglet eats at each feeding is recorded. Vaccinations, genotyping, ear notching, and needle teeth trimming are performed within the first 7 days after birth of the piglet. In some aspects, vaccines use killed agents. Piglets are vaccinated against Mycoplasma Hyopneumoniae, Hemophilus Parasuis, Streptococcus Suis, Pasteurella Multocida, Bordatella Bronchiseptica and Erysipelothrix Rhusiopathiae at day 7 after birth, with a booster vaccination at 28 days of age. In one aspect, vaccines are killed agents. All swine six months or older are vaccinated against Erysipelothrix Rhusiopathiae, Leptospira (Canicola-Grippotyphosa-Hardjo-Icterohaemorrhagiae-Pomona), Influenza and Parvovirus. Repeat vaccination is performed every six months.

The source animals for the xenotransplantation product are maintained in a positive pressure, biocontainment establishment, under specific isolation-barrier conditions governed by standard operation procedures adopted by the managers of the given program, and receive specialized care, under controlled conditions in order to mitigate adventitious agents. To ensure the welfare of the closed colony of source animals intended for xenotransplantation use, the SAF, personnel, and the caretakers of source animals adhere to procedures for animal husbandry, tissue harvesting, and sacrifice of animals. The source animals are housed in a positive pressure, biocontainment establishment, under specific isolation-barrier conditions.

In some aspects, food and bedding are delivered to a loading dock, transported, and stored in a specific feed room off of the clean cage wash area accessible only to staff in the inner hallway. All bedding and feed are sterilized by irradiation and double bagged to insure sterility. Feed used for the piglets and more mature animals is defined grain feed by a specific manufacturer. It does not contain any cattle protein. Water supply is provided either by use of the facility sterile system or purchased sterile water which is dispensed into sterile pans. Records for storage and delivery of feed, water, and other consumables are maintained, and include manufacturer, batch numbers, and other pertinent information, per protocol.

In some aspects, animal records are maintained to describe the feed provided to source animals for at least two generations before their use as a source for live tissues, organs and/or cells used in xenotransplantation. This includes source, vendor, and the type of feed used (including its contents). Use of feed that has been derived from animals is prohibited. Source animals are not provided feeds containing animal proteins or other cattle materials that are prohibited by the FDA feed ban as expanded in 2008 as source animals (21 CFR 589.2000) or feeds containing significant drug contamination or pesticide or herbicide residues for source animals (21 CFR 589.2001).

In some aspect, purified water is provided in sufficient quality to prevent unnecessary exposure of animals to infectious pathogens, drugs, pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Newborn animals are provided colostrum specifically qualified for herd qualification. In some aspects, Bovine Colostrum IgG formulated for swine, Sterling Nursemate ASAP or equivalent is used to feed newborn animals.

Biological Products Derived from DPF Closed Colony Biological Products

As described herein, biological products for xenotransplantation are derived from source animals produced and maintained in accordance with the present invention, including from the DPF Closed Colony 102 as described herein. Such biological products include, but are not limited to, liver, kidney, skin, lung, heart, pancreas, intestine, nerve and other organs, cells and/or tissues.

The present disclosure provides a continuous manufacturing process for a xenotransplantation product that has reduced immunogenicity, reduced antigenicity, increased viability, increased mitochondrial activity, a specifically required pathogen profile, and unexpectedly long shelf-life in xenotransplantation tissues subject to cryopreservation. The continuous manufacturing process is surprisingly and unexpectedly effective in avoiding hyperacute rejection, delayed xenograft rejection, acute cellular rejection, chronic rejection, cross-species transmission of diseases, cross-species transmission of parasites, cross-species transmission of bacteria, cross-species transmission of fungi, and cross-species transmission of viruses. The continuous manufacturing process is surprisingly and unexpectedly effective in creating a closed herd in which the donor animals survive normally without detectable pathological changes.

Harvesting of such biological products occurs in a single, continuous, and self-contained, segregated manufacturing event that begins with the sacrifice of the source animal through completion of the production of the final product. The animal is euthanized via captive bolt euthanasia, may be moved, if necessary, in a sterile, non-porous bag, to an operating room where the procedure to harvest biological product from the source animal will occur. All members of the operating team should be in full sterile surgical gear, e.g., dressed in sterile dress to maintain designated pathogen free conditions prior to receiving the source animal and in some instanced be double-gloved to minimize contamination, and surgical areas and tools are sterilized. The source animal is removed from the bag and container in an aseptic fashion. The source animal is scrubbed by operating staff, e.g., for at least 1-10 minutes with antiseptic, e.g., Chlorhexidine, brushes over the entire area of the animal where the operation will occur, periodically pouring Chlorhexidine over the area to ensure coverage. Surgical area(s) of the animal are scrubbed with opened Betadine brushes and sterile water rinse over the entire area of the animal where the operation will occur for, e.g., 1-10 minutes. For surgery, operators will be dressed in sterile dress in accordance with program and other standards to maintain designated pathogen free conditions. All organs, cells or tissue from the source animal that will be used for xenotransplantation is harvested within 15 hours of the animal being sacrificed.

Biological products can also include, but are not limited to, those disclosed herein (e.g., in the specific examples), as well as any and all other tissues, organs, and/or purified or substantially pure cells and cell lines harvested from the source animals. In some aspects, tissues that are utilized for xenotransplantation as described herein include, but are not limited to, areolar, blood, adenoid, bone, brown adipose, cancellous, cartaginous, cartilage, cavernous, chondroid, chromaffin, connective tissue, dartoic, elastic, epithelial, Epithelium, fatty, fibrohyaline, fibrous, Gamgee, Gelatinous, Granulation, gut-associated lymphoid, Haller's vascular, hard hemopoietic, indifferent, interstitial, investing, islet, lymphatic, lymphoid, mesenchymal, mesonephric, mucous connective, multilocular adipose, muscle, myeloid, nasion soft, nephrogenic, nerve, nodal, osseous, osteogenic, osteoid, periapical, reticular, retiform, rubber, skeletal muscle, smooth muscle, and subcutaneous tissue. In some aspects, organs that are utilized for xenotransplantation as described herein include, but are not limited to, skin, kidneys, liver, brain, adrenal glands, anus, bladder, blood, blood vessels, bones, cartilage, cornea, ears, esophagus, eye, glands, gums, hair, heart, hypothalamus, intestines, large intestine, ligaments, lips, lungs, lymph, lymph nodes and lymph vessels, mammary glands, mouth, nails, nose, ovaries, oviducts, pancreas, penis, pharynx, pituitary, pylorus, rectum, salivary glands, seminal vesicles, skeletal muscles, skin, small intestine, smooth muscles, spinal cord, spleen, stomach, suprarenal capsule, teeth, tendons, testes, thymus gland, thyroid gland, tongue, tonsils, trachea, ureters, urethra, uterus, and vagina.

In some aspects, purified or substantially pure cells and cell lines that are utilized for xenotransplantation as describe herein include, but are not limited to, blood cells, blood precursor cells, cardiac muscle cells, chondrocytes, cumulus cells, endothelial cells, epidermal cells, epithelial cells, fibroblast cells, granulosa cells, hematopoietic cells, Islets of Langerhans cells, keratinocytes, lymphocytes (B and T), macrophages, melanocytes, monocytes, mononuclear cells, neural cells, other muscle cells, pancreatic alpha-1 cells, pancreatic alpha-2 cells, pancreatic beta cells, pancreatic insulin secreting cells, adipocytes, epithelial cells, aortic endothelial cells, aortic smooth muscle cells, astrocytes, basophils, bone cells, bone precursor cells, cardiac myocytes, chondrocytes, eosinophils, erythrocytes, fibroblasts, glial cells, hepatocytes, keratinocytes, Kupffer cells, liver stellate cells, lymphocytes, microvascular endothelial cells, monocytes, neuronal stem cells, neurons, neutrophils, pancreatic islet cells, parathyroid cells, parotid cells, platelets, primordial stem cells. Schwann cells, smooth muscle cells, thyroid cells, tumor cells, umbilical vein endothelial cells, adrenal cells, antigen presenting cells, B cells, bladder cells, cervical cells, cone cells, egg cells, epithelial cells, germ cells, hair cells, heart cells, kidney cells, leydig cells, lutein cells, macrophages, memory cells, muscle cells, ovarian cells, pacemaker cells, peritubular cells, pituitary cells, plasma cells, prostate cells, red blood cells, retinal cells, rod cells, Sertoli cells, somatic cells, sperm cells, spleen cells, T cells, testicular cells, uterine cells, vaginal epithelial cells, white blood cells, ciliated cells, columnar epithelial cells, dopaminergic cells, dopaminergic cells, embryonic stem cells, endometrial cells, fibroblasts fetal fibroblasts, follicle cells, goblet cells, keratinized epithelial cells, lung cells, mammary cells, mucous cells, non-keratinized epithelial cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, osteocytes, and squamous epithelial cells.

An organ is a group of related cells that combine together to perform one or more specific functions within the body. Biologically, skin is the body's largest and fastest-growing organ, and is classified as the primary component of the integumentary system, one of the ten macro-organ systems found in “advanced” animals. Skin fulfills several critical roles including regulating temperature, providing a dynamic barrier to the external world, and serving as a conduit to support an immense network of sensory receptors. The skin performs several functions that are vital to the survival and health of the body. The skin heals to prevent the loss of blood after wounds, regulates body temperature by dissipating heat and as a layer against cold, absorption, secretion, thermal-regulation, sensory detection and orientation, and barrier protection. In fact, not only has success in transplantation of skin been recognized to correlate to transplantation of other organs, but skin transplants appear to be more sensitive to rejection than other organs, e.g., immune privileged organs such as liver, and skin transplants have even been suggested for use as “sentinel transplants,” i.e., use of skin grafts in a human recipient as early predictors of rejection of transplanted solid organs in the same recipient. For example, as reported in Ali et al. Transplant Proc. 2016 October; 48(8):2565-2570, evidence provided by experience with abdominal wall transplantation in some intestinal and multivisceral transplant recipients suggest that rejection may manifest in the skin component before emergence in the intestinal allograft, providing a “lead time” during which treatment of rejection of the abdominal wall could prevent the emergence of intestinal rejection.

Further, United States Code Title 42, Section 274 and Section 301, explicitly list skin in its formal definition of human organs, i.e., “‘Human organ,’ as covered by section 301 of the National Organ Transplant Act, as amended, means the human (including fetal) kidney, liver, heart, lung, pancreas, bone marrow and other hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells without regard to the method of their collection, cornea, eye, bone skin, and intestine, including the esophagus, stomach, small and/or large intestine, or any portion of the gastrointestinal tract.” Similarly, the Human Organ Transplant Ordinance (HOTO), an internationally ratified ordinance to prevent organ trading and protect donor and recipient rights to self-determination. This global legislation lists skin—and whole segments of the integumentary system—formally as an organ, and more broadly defines an organ as “any part of the human body consisting of a structured arrangement of tissues which, if wholly removed, cannot be regenerated by the body . . . ” Following, the formal medical definition of a transplant is: “the removal of tissue from one part of the body or from one individual and its implantation or insertion in another especially by surgery.” The HOTO defines a transplant as “the transfer of an organ from one person to another during a transplant operation, regardless of permanence.”

With regard to skin, grafts typically consist of decellularized and/or reconstituted sheets of homogenized dermis that are used to achieve temporary, superficial wound coverage. Such grafts do not retain the original tissue structure nor the metabolically active, otherwise naturally present cells, and thus do not become vascularized; no capillary ingrowth or vessel-to-vessel connections are made. Consequently, immune rejection is not a concern—the skin graft becomes “ejected” rather than rejected by the growth of a complete host epithelium underneath the graft. Thus, while the term graft can be correctly applied to such solutions, the primary qualities that differentiate a transplant from a graft are that of heightened complexity, organization, and inclusion of one or more types of tissue. In the present case, a skin transplant is fundamentally differentiated from grafts known in the prior art. For example, a skin xenotransplant is comprised of live cells that perform the same function as the patient's original skin before eventually experiencing immune-mediated rejected. Thus, in this context, a skin xenotransplant according to the present disclosure is an organ transplant rather than a graft.

In terms of harvesting a biological product from the swine, wherein the harvesting comprises euthanizing the swine and aseptically removing the biological product from the swine; processing said biological product comprising sterilization after harvesting using a sterilization process that does not reduce cell viability to less than 50% cell viability in a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT)-reduction assay and does not reduce mitochondrial activity to less than 50% mitochondrial activity; and storing the biological product in a sterile container; and the non-human animal is a non-transgenic genetically reprogrammed swine for xenotransplantation of cells, tissue, and/or an organ isolated from the non-transgenic genetically reprogrammed swine, the non-transgenic genetically reprogrammed swine comprising a nuclear genome that has been reprogrammed to replace a plurality of nucleotides in a plurality of exon regions of a major histocompatibility complex of a wild-type swine with nucleotides from orthologous exon regions of a known human major histocompatibility complex sequence from a human capture sequence, wherein said reprogramming does not introduce any frameshifts or frame disruptions. Further specific aspects, details and examples are provided in the following disclosures and claims and any and all combinations of those aspects, details and examples constitute aspects of the present disclosure.

In other aspect, Xenogeneic kidneys are derived from a genetically engineered, reprogrammed and designated pathogen free swine is produced in accordance with the present invention and transplanted into a non-human primate and a human. It is expected that survival of at least fourteen months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 24 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 36 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 48 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 60 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human.

In another aspect, Xenogeneic lungs are derived from a genetically engineered, reprogrammed and designated pathogen free swine produced in accordance with the present invention and transplanted into a non-human primate and a human. It is expected that survival of at least 30 days is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 3 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 6 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 12 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 24 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 36 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 48 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 60 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human.

In another aspect, Xenogeneic hearts are derived from a genetically engineered, reprogrammed and designated pathogen free swine produced in accordance with the present invention and transplanted into a non-human primate and a human. It is expected that survival of at least 20 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 24 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 36 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 48 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 60 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human.

In another aspect, Xenogeneic nerve tissues are derived from a genetically engineered, reprogrammed and designated pathogen free swine produced in accordance with the present invention and transplanted into a non-human primate and a human. It is expected that survival of at least 75 days is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 3 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 6 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 12 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 24 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 36 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 48 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 60 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. zx

In another aspect, Xenogeneic livers are derived from a genetically engineered, reprogrammed and designated pathogen free swine produced in accordance with the present invention and transplanted into a non-human primate and a human. It is expected that survival of at least 60 days is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 3 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 6 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 12 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 24 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 36 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 48 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 60 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human.

In some embodiments, use of pig livers produced in accordance with the present invention to serve as extracorporeal filters for humans are disclosed. In a study by Levy, et al., “Liver allotransplantation after extracorporeal hepatic support with transgenic (hCD55/hCD59) porcine livers: Clinical results and lack of pig-to-human transmission of the porcine endogenous retrovirus,” Transplantation, 69(2):272-280 (2000) (“Levy”), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, whole organ extracorporeal perfusion of a genetically modified transgenic porcine liver was proposed to sustain patients awaiting human liver transplantation for fulminant hepatic failure. The pig livers used were reported to be transgenic for human CD55 (decay-accelerating factor) and human CD59, however, the livers failed to suppress marked increase of [alpha]-gal antibodies.

In accordance with the present invention, in one aspect, a liver derived from a genetically reprogrammed source animal in accordance with the present invention is utilized for extracorporeal perfusion as a temporary filter for a human patient until a patient receives a human transplant. It will be understood that pigs with additional genetic modifications may also be utilized, including pigs genetically reprogrammed for any number of traits disclosed elsewhere herein.

In one aspect, as shown in FIG. 38, an extracorporeal circuit utilizes an oxygenator (e.g., Minimax Plus® hollow fiber oxygenator), a pump (e.g., Bio-Medicus model 540 Bio-Console® with a BP50 Pediatric Bio Pump® centrifugal pump), and a warmer (Bio-Medicus model 370 BioCal™ Temperature Controller). The circuit also utilizes a roller pump (e.g., Sarns model 7000; Sarns, Ann Arbor, Mich.) to supplement for lack of gravity return to the patient. Bridges and clamps are utilized to isolate both the perfused liver and the patient.

In an operating area within the DPF Isolation Area, a source animal is placed under a general anesthetic (ketamine, xylazine, enflurane) or euthanized by captive bolt. A hepatectomy is then performed on the source animal in designated pathogen free conditions.

The livers can be preserved in any number of ways known in the art prior to use as an extracorporeal filter, including, but not limited to, as disclosed in Levy (e.g., “a 4° C. lactated Ringer's/albumin solution and cannulated in the portal vein (28F Research Medical, model SPC-641-28) and the inferior vena cava (36F Research Medical, model SPC-641-36)”).

The common bile duct can be intubated in any number of ways, including, but not limited to, as set forth in Levy (e.g., “with an intravenous extension tube (Extension Set 30, Abbott Hospitals, Inc., Chicago, Ill.) to allow subsequent quantification of bile production.”)

The liver product derived from the source animal can be packaged and transported to the location of the procedure in accordance with current practice with human donor livers.

The procedure to utilize the liver filtration product can be performed, for example, by percutaneously cannulating a patient's internal jugular vein for venous return with a 12F pediatric arterial cannula (e.g., Medtronic DLP, Grand Rapids, Mich.) and percutaneously cannulating a patient's femoral vein for venous outflow with a 19F femoral artery cannula (e.g., Medtronic Bio-Medicus, Eden Prairie, Minn.). These cannulas are connected to a bypass circuit, having a centrifugal pump (e.g., Bio-Medicus), a heat exchanger (Medtronic Bio-Medicus), an oxygenator (e.g., Medtronic Cardiopulmonary, Anaheim, Calif.), and a roller pump (e.g., Sarns) incorporated therein.

This circuit is primed with crystalloids and run for a period of time (e.g., 20 minutes) before the liver obtained from the genetically reprogrammed source animal is incorporated at a stabilized flow rate of 800 ml/min, maintained in a crystalloid bath occasionally supplemented with warm solution.

In other aspect, Xenogeneic pancreases are derived from a genetically engineered, reprogrammed and designated pathogen free swine is produced in accordance with the present invention Xenogeneic pancreas derived from a genetically reprogrammed swine produced in accordance with the present invention is transplanted into a non-human primate and a human. It is expected that survival of at least 20 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 24 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 36 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 48 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human. In some aspects, it is expected that survival of at least 60 months is observed in each of the non-human primate and the human.

While the subject matter of this disclosure has been described and shown in considerable detail with reference to certain illustrative aspects, including various combinations and sub-combinations of features, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate other aspects and variations and modifications thereof as encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, the descriptions of such aspects, combinations, and sub-combinations is not intended to convey that the claimed subject matter requires features or combinations of features other than those expressly recited in the claims. Accordingly, the scope of this disclosure is intended to include all modifications and variations encompassed within the spirit and scope of the following appended claims.

In other aspect, Xenogeneic dermal combination product derived from a genetically engineered, reprogrammed and designated pathogen free swine is produced in accordance with the present invention.

Some skin transplantation products for the treatment of burns and other ailments utilize cultured epidermal autografts (see, e.g., products produced by Vericel Corporation under the Epicel® brand name). Such epidermal autografts can be utilized for patients with burns (including severe burns) and result in reduced or no rejection in the transplanted epidermal material since the material is derived from the patient's own skin.

However, such products are limited to the epidermis only, and do not include the dermis portion of the skin. Referring to FIG. 39, it will be understood that the dermis (which typically accounts for 95% of the thickness of the skin) performs significantly different functions than the epidermis (which is the outer portion of the skin that typically accounts for 5% of the thickness of the skin).

Since epidermal autografts alone lack the ability to perform the critical functions of the dermis, such products are used in combination with a viable dermis. In some injuries, the wound bed includes remaining portions of the patient's own dermis, which is the ideal dermis to utilize in a procedure grafting cultured epidermal autografts onto a patient. However, in some cases the burn is more severe, and the patient's own dermis no longer exists or is no longer viable. In those instances, a different dermis is required since an epidermal autograft alone will not suffice.

In one aspect, a full thickness skin graft wound dressing consisting of dermal tissue derived from designated pathogen free α-1,3-galactosyltransferase [Gal-T] knockout swine in accordance with the present invention is used in conjunction or combination with cultured epidermal autografts. One treatment process utilizing this combination is as follows.

A patient with severe burn wounds is taken to an operating room within 48-72 hours of injury. A biopsy is taken as soon as possible after the patient undergoes care, and the epidermis skin cells are isolated and grown separately according to the known procedures for creating cultured epidermal autografts (see, e.g., products produced by Vericel Corporation under the Epicel® brand name).

Depending on how much of the patient's body is damaged, epidermal autografts are taken from healthy areas to treat burned areas and/or to later create an epidermal autograft mesh used in the grafting process.

Areas of severe burns are treated with the skin products described herein, e.g., skin products derived from a designated pathogen free α-1,3-galactosyltransferase [Gal-T] knockout swine produced in accordance with the present invention. Such treatments comprise temporary wound coverage until sufficient autografts are utilized to treat the patient long-term.

Prior to application of the epidermal autografts, significant debridement of wound bed is required to ensure an adequate substrate. To confirm a wound bed is ready for an epidermal autograft, apply the skin products described herein, e.g., skin products derived from a designated pathogen free α-1,3-galactosyltransferase [Gal-T] knockout swine produced in accordance with the present invention to confirm adherence. Once adherence is confirmed, the temporary wound coverage product is removed, and in some aspects, the wound bed is covered with a meshed autograft, and one or more cultured epidermal autograft products are placed on top to close the gaps in the autograft mesh.

The debridement may include mechanical debridement, chemical debridement, enzymatic debridement, or a combination thereof. Mechanical debridement may include surgical excision, e.g., tangential excision to remove thin layers of dermis until healthy tissue is visualized, or fascial excision to remove the full thickness of dermis down to the underlying fascia. Tangential excision allows less viable tissue to be removed with the necrotic tissue, but typically results in higher blood loss, is a larger physiologic stressor than fascial excision, and is more likely to result in “incomplete” debridement, with some devitalized tissue remaining in place. In fascial excision, blood loss and operative time are minimized, but often a large amount of healthy tissue is removed with the burned tissue. Debriding agents may include agents capable of cleaning a burn wound by removing foreign material and dead tissue. Many such agents are known. In enzymatic debridement, collagenases or other proteolytic enzymes are employed that break down proteins of the extracellular matrix, allowing devitalized tissue to be wiped away without the need for surgery while preferably leaving healthy tissue substantially intact. Enzymatic debridement involves the application of proteolytic and optionally other exogenous enzymes to a wound surface to break down necrotic tissue. Enzymatic debridement may be a relatively slow process, carried out over a period of a number of weeks in combination with other topical preparations, soakings and repeated dressings. Alternately, rapid enzymatic debridement can be accomplished using multi-enzyme products, for example, those extracted from the stem of the pineapple plant, as disclosed for example in WO 98/053850 and WO 2006/0006167, and as provided in the product marketed under the trade name Debrase®. A procedure for enzymatic debridement generally utilizes an enzyme such as bromelain derivatives, debridase, collagenase, papain derivatives, streptokinase, sutilains, fibrinolysin, deoxyribonuclease, krill derivatives, trypsin or combinations thereof. Autolytic debridement relies on enhancing the natural process of selective liquefaction, separation and digestion of necrotic tissue and eschar from healthy tissue that occurs in wounds due to macrophage and endogenous proteolytic activity. This is achieved by the use of occlusive, semi-occlusive or moist interactive dressings.Enzymatic debridement agents include a bromelain enriched enzyme product, other collagenases, or other enzyme products capable of clearing devitalized tissue or wound debris. NexoBrid™ (MediWound Ltd.) is one such bromelain enriched product that specifically targets heat-denatured collagen for degradation, resulting in partial-thickness and full-thickness wounds requiring a wound coverage or dressing product. Such products and methods are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,540,983; 8,119,124; 7,128,719; 7,794,709; 8,624,077; and US2009/0010910A1, each of which is incorporated by reference herein.

In some aspects, the wound bed may include or be a chronic wound or an acute wound. Chronic wounds include but are not limited to venous leg ulcers, pressure ulcers, and diabetic foot ulcers. Acute wounds include but are not limited to burns, traumatic injuries, amputation wounds, skin graft donor sites, bite wounds, frostbite wounds, dermabrasions, and surgical wounds.

In the cases where there is no dermis, skin products derived from a designated pathogen free α-1,3-galactosyltransferase [Gal-T] knockout swine produced in accordance with the present invention are utilized. The epidermis is removed from such products (e.g., before dermis harvesting on the pig with a VERSAJET™ Hydrosurgery system), so that just the dermis remains. Then, the subject swine dermis is placed on the patient's subcutaneous tissue, serving as a substrate for the cultured epidermal autograft process described above.

Product Characteristics, Testing and Therapeutic Uses

In some aspects, the xenotransplantation products described and disclosed herein are temporary, i.e., their use in patients for xenotransplantation is non-permanent, utilized primarily for the treatment of acute ailments and injuries, able to be utilized for longer periods of time as compared to products that are not produced in accordance with the present invention. It will be understood that some of the aspects of the products described and disclosed herein may also be permanent or more permanent, with transplanted organs, tissues and/or cells being accepted by human recipients over much longer periods of time without adverse rejection.

In other aspects, the xenotransplantation products described and disclosed herein are viable, live cell (e.g., vital, biologically active) products; distinct from synthetic or other tissue-based products comprised of terminally sterilized, non-viable cells which are incapable of completing the vascularization process. Further, in some aspects, the product of the present disclosure is not devitalized, or “fixed” with glutaraldehydes or radiation treatment.

In yet other aspects, the xenotransplantation products described and disclosed herein are minimally manipulated (e.g., without physical alteration of the related cells, organs or tissues) such that such products are substantially in their natural state.

In certain aspects, the xenotransplantation products described and disclosed herein are obtained from a non-human animal, e.g., a non-transgenic genetically reprogrammed swine, including cells, tissue, and/or an organ isolated from the non-transgenic genetically reprogrammed swine, the non-transgenic genetically reprogrammed swine comprising a nuclear genome that has been reprogrammed to replace a plurality of nucleotides in a plurality of exon regions of a major histocompatibility complex of a wild-type swine with nucleotides from orthologous exon regions of a known human major histocompatibility complex sequence from a human capture sequence, and wherein cells of said genetically reprogrammed swine do not present one or more surface glycan epitopes, wherein said reprogramming does not introduce any frameshifts or frame disruptions. For example, genes encoding alpha-1,3 galactosyltransferase, cytidine monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase (CMAH), and β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase are disrupted such that surface glycan epitopes encoded by said genes are not expressed. Further specific aspects, details and examples are provided in the following disclosures and claims and any and all combinations of those aspects, details and examples constitute aspects of the present disclosure.

In yet other aspects, the xenotransplantation products described and disclosed herein are capable of making an organic union with the human recipient, including, but not limited to, being compatible with vascularization, collagen growth (e.g., in regard to skin), and/or other interactions from the transplant recipient inducing graft adherence, organic union, or other temporary or permanent acceptance by the recipient.

In yet other aspects, the xenotransplantation products described and disclosed herein are utilized in xenotransplantation without the need to use, or at least reduction of use, of immunosuppressant drugs or other immunosuppressant therapies to achieve desired therapeutic results.

In other aspects, some of the xenotransplantation products described and disclosed herein (e.g., skin) are stored by cryopreservation, stored fresh (without freezing), or stored via other methods to preserve such products consistent with this invention. Storage involves using conditions and processes that preserve cell and tissue viability.

In some aspects, storage may involve storing organs, tissues, or cells, in any combination of a sterile isotonic solution (e.g., sterile saline with or without antibiotics), on ice, in a cryopreservation fluid, cryopreserved at a temperature of around −40° C. or around −80° C., and other methods known in the field. Such storage can occur in a primary containment system and secondary containment system.

In yet other aspects, the xenotransplantation products described and disclosed herein are for homologous use, i.e., the repair, reconstruction, replacement or supplementation of a recipient's organ, cell and/or tissue with a corresponding organ, cell and/or tissue that performs the same basic function or functions as the donor (e.g., swine kidney is used as a transplant for human kidney, swine liver is used as a transplant for human liver, swine skin is used as a transplant for human skin, swine nerve is used as a transplant for human nerve and so forth).

In yet other aspects, the xenotransplantation products described and disclosed herein have a low bioburden, minimizing pathogens, antibodies, genetic markers, and other characteristics that may serve to increase the product's bioburden and the human body's immunological rejection of the product upon xenotransplantation. This may include the innate immune system, through PRRs TLRs, detecting PAMPs and rejecting the subject xenotransplantation product.

It will be understood that the aspects disclosed and described herein can be applied in any number of combinations to create an array or different aspects comprising one or more of the features and/or aspects of the aspects encompassed by the present invention.

It will be understood that there are numerous therapeutic applications for products derived from DPF Closed Colony in accordance with the present invention. For example, such products may be utilized to treat acute and/or chronic disease, disorders, or injuries to organ, cells or tissue, and any and all other ailments that can utilize the products disclosed herein. Such treatments and/or therapies can include utilizing such products to repair, reconstruct, replace or supplement (in some aspects on a temporary basis and in other aspects a permanent basis), a human recipient's corresponding organ, cell and/or tissue that performs the same basic function or functions as the donor.

Specific treatment applications include, but are not limited to, lung transplants, liver transplants, kidney transplants, pancreas transplants, heart transplants, nerve transplants and other full or partial transplants. With regard to skin, treatment applications also include, but are not limited to, treatment of burn wounds, diabetic ulcerations, venous ulcerations, chronic skin conditions, and other skin ailments, injuries and/or conditions (including, but not limited to, severe and extensive, deep partial and full thickness injuries, ailments and/or conditions) (see, e.g., Example 2 herein); use in adult and pediatric patients who have deep dermal or full thickness burns comprising a total body surface area greater than or equal to 30%, optionally in conjunction with split-thickness autografts, or alone in patients for whom split-thickness autografts may not be an option due to the severity and extent of their wounds/burns; treatment of liver failure, wounds, ailments, injuries and/or conditions with liver products derived in accordance with the present invention; treatment of peripheral nerve damage, and other nerve ailments, injuries and/or conditions; and cell and other therapies utilizing materials harvested from the DPF Closed Colony, including the therapeutic uses disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,795,493 (“Phelps”), including cell therapies and/or infusion for certain disorders (as disclosed in col. 30, line 1 to col. 31, line 9) and treatment or certain disorders or pathologies (as disclosed in col. 31, lines 10 to 42), the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

It will be understood that the specific recitation of therapies herein in no way limits the types of therapeutic applications for the products disclosed and described herein, which encompass acute and/or chronic disease, disorders, injuries to the following organs, tissues and/or cells: skin, kidneys, liver, brain, adrenal glands, anus, bladder, blood, blood vessels, bones, brain, brain, cartilage, ears, esophagus, eye, glands, gums, hair, heart, hypothalamus, intestines, large intestine, ligaments, lips, lungs, lymph, lymph nodes and lymph vessels, mammary glands, mouth, nails, nose, ovaries, oviducts, pancreas, penis, pharynx, pituitary, pylorus, rectum, salivary glands, seminal vesicles, skeletal muscles, skin, small intestine, smooth muscles, spinal cord, spleen, stomach, suprarenal capsule, teeth, tendons, testes, thymus gland, thyroid gland, tongue, tonsils, trachea, ureters, urethra, uterus, uterus, vagina, areolar, blood, adenoid, bone, brown adipose, cancellous, cartaginous, cartilage, cavernous, chondroid, chromaffin, connective tissue, dartoic, elastic, epithelial, Epithelium, fatty, fibrohyaline, fibrous, Gamgee, Gelatinous, Granulation, gut-associated lymphoid, Haller's vascular, hard hemopoietic, indifferent, interstitial, investing, islet, lymphatic, lymphoid, mesenchymal, mesonephric, mucous connective, multilocular adipose, muscle, myeloid, nasion soft, nephrogenic, nerve, nodal, osseous, osteogenic, osteoid, periapical, reticular, retiform, rubber, skeletal muscle, smooth muscle, and subcutaneous tissue; blood cells, blood precursor cells, cardiac muscle cells, chondrocytes, cumulus cells, endothelial cells, epidermal cells, epithelial cells, fibroblast cells, granulosa cells, hematopoietic cells, Islets of Langerhans cells, keratinocytes, lymphocytes (B and T), macrophages, melanocytes, monocytes, mononuclear cells, neural cells, other muscle cells, pancreatic alpha-1 cells, pancreatic alpha-2 cells, pancreatic beta cells, pancreatic insulin secreting cells, adipocytes, epithelial cells, aortic endothelial cells, aortic smooth muscle cells, astrocytes, basophils, bone cells, bone precursor cells, cardiac myocytes, chondrocytes, eosinophils, erythrocytes, fibroblasts, glial cells, hepatocytes, keratinocytes, Kupffer cells, liver stellate cells, lymphocytes, microvascular endothelial cells, monocytes, neuronal stem cells, neurons, neutrophils, pancreatic islet cells, parathyroid cells, parotid cells, platelets, primordial stem cells, Schwann cells, smooth muscle cells, thyroid cells, tumor cells, umbilical vein endothelial cells, adrenal cells, antigen presenting cells, B cells, bladder cells, cervical cells, cone cells, egg cells, epithelial cells, germ cells, hair cells, heart cells, kidney cells, leydig cells, lutein cells, macrophages, memory cells, muscle cells, ovarian cells, pacemaker cells, peritubular cells, pituitary cells, plasma cells, prostate cells, red blood cells, retinal cells, rod cells, Sertoli cells, somatic cells, sperm cells, spleen cells, T cells, testicular cells, uterine cells, vaginal epithelial cells, white blood cells, ciliated cells, columnar epithelial cells, dopaminergic cells, dopaminergic cells, embryonic stem cells, endometrial cells, fibroblasts fetal fibroblasts, follicle cells, goblet cells, keratinized epithelial cells, lung cells, mammary cells, mucous cells, non-keratinized epithelial cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, osteocytes, and squamous epithelial cells. This listing is in no way meant to limit the array of therapeutic uses to treat acute and/or chronic disease, disorders, injuries, organ or tissue failures, and any and all other ailments that can utilize the products disclosed herein.

With respect to the treatment of burns, including but not limited to e.g., second- and third-degree burns, in some aspects, skin products derived in accordance with the present invention are used to treat human patients with severe and extensive deep partial and/or full thickness burn wounds. Such products contain terminally-differentiated cell types that are not expanded ex vivo prior to use and do not migrate from the site of application during intended duration of treatment. Therefore, potential for tumorigenicity is negligible.

Such products adhere to the wound bed and provides a barrier function in the immediate post-burn period. Such products have non-terminally sterilized, viable cells, allowing for vascularization of the graft tissue with the recipient. In some aspects, the epidermis remains fully intact, and dermal components are maintained without change to structural morphology or organization of the various cells and tissues. This physiologic mechanism supports the prolonged survival of the graft material, and provides at least a temporary barrier function with significant clinical impact on par with, or better than, allograft. In some aspects, if clinical signs of infection, e.g., pain, edema, erythema, warmth, drainage, odor or unexplained fever, are present or developing, the product of the present disclosure is not applied until the clinical signs of the infection are reduced or eliminated for a predetermined period of time, e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 days, 1, 2, 3, or 4 weeks, or if the subject has tested negative for the infection. In some aspects, the wound is cleaned, confirmed to be well-vascularized and nonexuding. If a dermal substitute such as cadaver allograft is also being used, the epidermal layer is removed from engrafted allograft prior to the application of the product without removing the engrafted dermis. The epidermal layer may be removed with a dermatome or other instrument according to standard operating procedures of the facility.

Grafts conventionally used in clinical practice consist of decellularized and/or reconstituted sheets of homogenized dermis that are used to achieve temporary, superficial wound coverage. Such conventional grafts do not retain the original tissue structure nor the metabolically active, otherwise naturally present cells, and thus do not become vascularized; no capillary ingrowth or vessel-to-vessel connections are made. In contrast, skin products described herein are fundamentally differentiated from such grafts because the product of the present disclosure includes live cells that perform the same function as the patient's original skin, i.e., the product acts as an organ transplant. Skin performs additional, critical roles related to homeostasis, temperature regulation, fluid exchange, and infection prevention. The absence of a sufficient amount of skin can compromise the ability to perform these functions leading to high incidences of mortality and morbidity from infections and fluid loss. Skin transplants have been reliably used with notable clinical benefit to prevent these outcomes in patients with significant wounds; regardless of whether the graft is temporary or permanent. Thus, unlike other proposed transplants, use of immunosuppressive drugs would be reduced or not be necessary. In fact, such regimens would be contraindicated in burn patients whose injuries already exhibit some level of comprised immune function. Thus, the xenotransplantation product of the present disclosure should not be confused with traditional “xenograft” products consisting of econstituted, homogenized wild-type porcine dermis fashioned into sheets or meshed, such as EZ-Derm™ or Medi-Skin™. Such porcine xenografts do not vascularize and are primarily only useful for temporary coverage of superficial burns. In stark contrast, the xenotransplantation product of the present disclosure contains metabolically active, minimally manipulated cells in identical conformations and unchanged morphologies as the source tissue.

In some aspects, the present disclosure includes using xenotransplanted donor skin as a test for prediction of rejection of other organs from the same animal donor. Techniques for performing such predictive tests using human donor skin have previously been described, e.g., in Moraes et al., Transplantation. 1989; 48(6):951-2; Starzl, et al., Clinical and Developmental Immunology, vol. 2013, Article ID 402980, 1-9; Roberto et al., Shackman et al., Lancet. 1975; 2(7934):521-4, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties for all purposes. Moraes reported that the crossmatch procedure was highly accurate in predicting early kidney transplant rejection. Shackman reported that the fate of skin grafts taken from live human prospective kidney donors correlates well with the outcome of kidney transplantation from the same donors. According to the present disclosure, in one aspect, the present disclosure includes a method of using a xenotransplanted skin sample in a human patient in order to determine whether there is a risk of rejection of other organs xenotransplanted from the same animal donor in the human patient.

The skin grafting methods described herein can be used to treat any injury for which skin grafts are useful, e.g., for coverage of partial thickness and full thickness wounds including but not limited to burns, e.g. partial thickness or excised full thickness burn wounds; avulsed skin e.g. on an extremity; diabetic wounds, e.g., non-healing diabetic foot wounds, venous stasis ulcers.

In some aspects, the xenotransplantation product of the present disclosure has pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics properties that meet regulatory requirements. Characterization of such properties requires a unique approach with respect to classical meanings of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. “Absorption” of the xenotransplantation product for the purposes of consideration of pharmacokinetics, may be described by the vascularization process the xenotransplantation product experiences. For example, shortly after surgery, skin xenotransplantation products may present as warm, soft, and pink, whereas wild-type or traditional xenografts appear as non-vascularized “white grafts.” In some aspects, the distribution of the transplant is limited to the site of transplant as confirmed by DNA PCR testing to demonstrate the presence or absence of pig cells in peripheral blood beyond the transplantation site.

In other aspects, the cells of the biological products produced in accordance with the present invention do not migrate following xenotransplantation into the recipient, including into the circulation of the recipient. This includes that PERV or PERV-infected porcine cells do not migrate into the recipient. Confirmation that such cells do not migrate into the recipient can be performed in a number of ways, including via DNA-PCR analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and samples from the transplantation site and of highly perfused organs (e.g., liver, lung, kidney and spleen) to determine and otherwise demonstrate that migrations of porcine cells (DNA) or porcine retroviral (RNA) components in the peripheral blood did not occur in the recipient.

Moreover, bioavailability and mechanism of action of the xenotransplantation product is not affected by size. The distribution of the xenotransplantation product is limited to the site of the administration. For example, in the case of a skin transplant, the debrided wound bed initially created by the trauma or burn injury is the site of administration. The present disclosure includes testing to detect distribution of cells from the xenotransplantation product in the peripheral blood, wound beds, spleen and/or kidney beyond the site of administration. In certain aspects, such testing will demonstrate an absence of cells from the xenotransplantation product in the peripheral blood, wound beds, spleen and/or kidney beyond the site of administration. Such testing may include DNA PCR testing for various cellular markers present in the type of animal from which the product is obtained, e.g., PERV, swine MHC, and other swine DNA sequences. In certain aspects, cells and nucleic acids from the xenotransplantation product remain limited to the site of administration.

The metabolism of the xenotransplantation product, traditionally defined as the metabolic breakdown of the drug by living organisms, typically via specialized enzymes or enzymatic systems, may be congruent with the aforementioned natural host rejection phenomenon, which occurs in the absence of exogenous immunosuppressive drugs. Via the same formulation and identical route of administration as intended for future human use, such xenotransplantation products undergo a delayed, immune rejection course similar to allograft comparators for clinically useful durations.

In similar fashion, excretion of the xenotransplantation product could be modeled and experientially monitored by the clinical “sloughing” phenomenon as a result of necrotic ischemia of the transplant, due to antibody-mediated vascular injury, ultimately leading to the death of the tissue.

The demonstrated efficacy of the xenotransplantation product of the present disclosure, along with safety, availability, storage, shelf-life, and distribution, provide significant advantages over current standards of care.

In some aspects, the “dosage” of the xenotransplantation product of the present disclosure is expressed as percentage of viable cells in the product per unit area of transplantation. As such, in some aspects, the xenotransplantation product of the present disclosure can be considered as analogous to the active pharmaceutical ingredient in a pharmaceutical drug product.

Survival of the xenogeneic cells, tissues, or organs of the present disclosure is increased by avoiding: (a) infiltration of immune or inflammatory cells into the xenotransplantation product or alteration of such cells in other relevant compartments, such as the blood and cerebrospinal fluid; (b) fibrotic encapsulation of the xenotransplantation product, e.g., resulting in impaired function or xenotransplantation product loss; (c) xenotransplantation product necrosis; (d) graft versus host disease (GVHD); and (e) in vivo function and durability of encapsulation or barriers intended to diminish rejection or inflammatory responses.

Blood samples from piglets are obtained and tested for phenotype, lack of expression of alpha galactose on the cell surface of blood cells using FITC-IB4 labeling and flow cytometry. At this stage of development, all progeny will be genotyped at birth. A PCR assay has been established to determine if a pig has a wild type galactose-α1,3galactose transferase gene (Gal-T) or if it is heterozygous or homozygous for the Gal-T knockout (Gal-T-KO) using DNA isolated from ear notches or PBMC. Genomic DNA is isolated from PBMC (or skin tissues) using DNeasy Kit following the Qiagen DNeasy kit directions. PCR is performed on genomic DNA and control template DNA, Wild type Gal-T (+/+) Heterozygote Gal-T-KO (+/−) and Homozygous Gal-T-KO (−/−).

Punch biopsies of skin grafts are co-cultured with subconfluent target cells, human 293 (kidney epithelium) and porcine ST-IOWA cell lines maintained in culture medium (Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum and glutamine, penicillin, and streptomycin) in a 75-cm2 flask. The biopsies are kept in contact with the target cells for 5 days, after which the culture medium and remaining tissue are removed and the target cell co-cultures are maintained by subculturing as necessary. PERV infection of target cells is determined by the presence of reverse transcriptase (RT) activity in the culture supernatants. Transmission assays are maintained for a minimum of 60 days before being considered negative.

Product characterization to measure safety, identity, purity and potency is performed. Safety tests include bacterial and fungal sterility, mycoplasma, and viral agents. The present disclosure includes cryopreserving and archiving for further testing, as needed, samples of all final xenotransplantation products (i.e., cells or tissues or biopsies of organs), whether fresh or from culture ex vivo. In some cases, for example if the xenotransplantation product is a whole intact organ, a relevant surrogate sample (e.g., adjacent tissues or contra-lateral organ) is archived.

With regard to skin, storage and cryopreservation of porcine skin has not been fully characterized, especially with regards to viability, as most porcine xenografts are intentionally devitalized, or “fixed” with glutaraldehydes or radiation treatment. Such information is necessary to support the use of vital porcine skin grafts—or porcine skin transplants—as a temporary and clinically advantageous option.

In procedures in which the xenotransplantation product is transplanted immediately after removal from the source animal, such as xenotransplantation of whole organs, results of testing of the xenotransplantation product may not be available before its clinical use. In such cases, testing of the source animal, itself, may be all the testing that is possible before the procedure. Testing of samples taken from such xenotransplantation products or appropriate relevant biological surrogates, e.g., adjacent tissues or contra-lateral organs, may be performed according to the present disclosure. Microbiological examination methods may include aspects set forth in the following Table 2:

TABLE 2 SUITABILITY OF COUNTING METHOD IN GROWTH THE PRESENCE OF PROMOTION PRODUCT TEST DETAILS Total Total Total Preparation Aerobic Yeasts and Total Aerobic Yeasts and of Test Microbial Molds Microbial Molds Microorganism Strain Count Count Count Count Staphylococcus Soybean- Soybean- Soybean-Casein aureus such Casein Digest Casein Digest as ATCC Agar or Digest Agar Agar/MPN 6538, NCIMB Soybean- and Soy- Soybean-Casein 9518, CIP Casein Digest bean-Casein Digest Broth 4.83, or Broth Digest Broth ≤100 cfu NBRC 30°-35° ≤100 cfu 30°-35° 13276 18-24 hours 30°-35° ≤3 days ≤3 days Pseudomonas Soybean- Soybean- Soybean-Casein aeruginosa Casein Digest Casein Digest such as ATCC Agar or Digest Agar Agar/MPN 9027, NCIMB Soybean- and Soy- Soybean-Casein 8626, CIP Casein Digest bean-Casein Digest Broth 82.118, Broth Digest Broth ≤100 cfu or NBRC 1 30°-35° ≤100 cfu 30°-35° 3275 18-24 hours 30°-35° ≤3 days ≤3 days Bacillus Soybean- Soybean- Soybean-Casein subtilis such Casein Digest Casein Digest as ATCC Agar or Digest Agar Agar/MPN 6633, NCIMB Soybean- and Soy- Soybean-Casein 8054, CIP Casein Digest bean-Casein Digest Broth 52.62, or Broth Digest Broth ≤100 cfu NBRC 3134 30°-35° ≤100 cfu 30°-35° 18-24 hours 30°-35° ≤3 days ≤3 days Candida Sabouraud Soybean- Sabouraud Soybean-Casein Sabouraud albicans such Dextrose Agar Casein Dextrose Digest Agar Dextrose as ATCC or Sabouraud Digest Agar ≤100 cfu ≤100 cfu Agar 10231, NCPF Dextrose ≤100 cfu 20°-25° 30°-35° ≤100 cfu 3179, Broth 20°-25° 30°-35° ≤5 days ≤5 days 20°-25° IP 48.72, or 2-3 days ≤5 days MPN: not ≤5 days NBRC 1594 applicable Aspergillus Sabouraud Soybean- Sabouraud Soybean-Casein Sabouraud brasiiiensis Dextrose Casein Dextrose Digest Agar Dextrose such as Agar or Digest Agar ≤100 cfu ≤100 cfu Agar ATCC16404, Potato- ≤100 cfu 20°-25° 30°-35° ≤100 cfu IMI 149007, Dextrose 30°-35° ≤5 days ≤5 days 20°-25° IP 1431.83, or Agar 20°-25° ≤5 days MPN: not ≤5 days NBRC 9455 5-7 days, or applicable until good sporulation is achieved

The present disclosure includes using Buffered Sodium Chloride-Peptone Solution pH 7.0 or Phosphate Buffer Solution pH 7.2 to make test suspensions; to suspend A. brasiliensis spores, 0.05% of polysorbate 80 may be added to the buffer. The present disclosure includes using the suspensions within 2 hours, or within 24 hours if stored between 2° C. and 8° C. As an alternative to preparing and then diluting a fresh suspension of vegetative cells of A. brasiliensis or B. subtilis, a stable spore suspension is prepared and then an appropriate volume of the spore suspension is used for test inoculation. The stable spore suspension may be maintained at 2° to 8° for a validated period of time. To verify testing conditions, a negative control is performed using the chosen diluent in place of the test preparation. There must be no growth of microorganisms. A negative control is also performed when testing the products as described under Testing of Products. A failed negative control requires an investigation. Microbiological Examination may be performed according to USP 61, USP 63, USP 71, USP 85 EP section 2.6.13 Microbial Examination of Non-sterile Products (Test for Specified Microorganisms), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

With regard to testing for porcine cytomegalovirus (PCMV), source animals are screened for PCMV on a quarterly basis. However, caesarian derived piglets, which are then consistently raised in the closed colony are not infected with PCMV. Analysis for PCMV was conducted during the studies in Example 1 herein and no PCMV was detected in the punch biopsies using the following PCR method. These results were consistent to the PCR results from nasal swabs. Quantitative Real-Time PCR is utilized for PCMV testing. Target DNA sequences were quantified by real-time PCR using a Stratagene Mx3005P. Sequence-specific primers and TaqMan probe were generated for each gene target. Each 25 uL PCR reaction included target DNA, 800 nM primers 200nMTaqMan probe, 20 nM Rox reference and 1× Brilliant III Ultra Fast Master Mix. The PCR cycling conditions were as follows: 1 cycle at 95° C. for 5 min followed by 50 cycles of denaturation at 95° C. for 10 seconds, and annealing-extension at 60° C. for 30 seconds with data collection following each extension. Serial dilutions of gel-extracted amplicon cloned into Invitrogen TOPO plasmid served as quantifying standards. Target DNA is detected with a linear dynamic range of 10 to 106 copies. For quantification of PCMV DNA, 300 ng of xenograft pig kidney DNA was run in a TaqMan PCR in triplicate. Primers and probes specific for PCMV DNA polymerase gene have been shown to have no cross-reactivity with PLHV-1. Utilization of cesarean-derived swine as source animals, combined with animal husbandry of the resulting closed colony and maintenance of the barrier-isolation conditions is attributed the animals being PCMV free. With regard to skin, the inventors noted that the safety and efficacy results achieved in Example 1 using single knockout swine (as opposed to triple knockout or even further genetically modified swine) were quite surprising given the comparable performance to allograft.

In some aspects, the analytical procedures used to test the xenotransplantation product can also include:

a. USP<71> Sterility. Samples are transferred to Tryptic Soy Broth (TSB) or Fluid Thioglycollate Medium (FTM) as appropriate. For Bacteriostasis and fungistasis, TSB samples are spiked with an inoculum of <100 Colony Forming Units (CFUs) of 24-hour cultures of Bactillus subtilis, Candida albicans, and with <100 spores of Aspergilius braseiliensis. The FTM samples will be spiked with an inoculum of <100 CFU's of 24-hour cultures of Staphyloccocus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Clostridium sporogenes. If growth is not observed, the product is found to be bacteriostatic or fungistatic and fails the USP <71> Sterility Test.

b. Aerobic and Anaerobic Bacteriological Cultures. Samples are transferred to Tryptic Soy Broth (TSB) or Fluid Thioglycollate Medium (FTM) as appropriate. Vessels will be incubated to allow for potential growth. If no evidence of microbial growth is found, the product will be judged to comply with the test for sterility as described by USP<71>.

c. Mycoplasma Assay USP <63>. Fresh samples will be added to 100 mL of Mycoplasma Hayflick broth and incubated at 37° C. for up to 21 days. The sample is subcultured after 2-4 days, 7-10 days, 14 days, and 21 days. The plates are then incubated at 37° C. for up to 14 days and checked for the presence of Mycoplasma colonies. If none are detected, the product is found to be in compliance with USP<63> and is mycoplasma free.

d. Endotoxin USP<85>. Three samples from the same lot will be tested for the Inhibition/Enhancement of the Limulus amoebocyte lysate (LAL) test. Samples will be extracted with 40 mL of WFI per sample at 37° C. for 1 hour. Samples will then be tested in the LAL Kinetic Chromogenic Test with a standard curve ranging from κ-50EU/mL at a validated dilution. Assays will be performed in compliance with USP<85>.

e. MTT Assay for Cell Viability. The metabolic activity of the drug product is tested relative to control tissue samples using a biochemical assay for [3-4,5 dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) metabolism. Positive and negative control samples of fresh xenotransplantation product tissue (positive control) or heat inactivated discs of xenotransplantation product tissue (negative control) or the test article of Xenotransplantation product are placed in amber microcentrifuge tubes containing MTT solution (0.3 m g/mL in DMEM, 0.5 mL). The discs are treated with MTT formazan and incubated for 180±15 minutes at 37° C. and an atmosphere of 5% CO 2 in air. The reaction is terminated by removal of the discs and the formazan is extracted by incubation at either ambient temperature for <24 hours or refrigerated at 4° C. for <72 hours. Samples are protected from light during this time. Aliquots are taken after the extraction is complete and the absorbance at 550 nm (with a reference wavelength of 630 nm) is measured and compared to a standard curve.

f. IB4 Assay for Extracellular Glycan Epitope. The absence of the galactosyl-α-1,3-galactose (Alpha-Gal) epitope on cells will be determined using fluorescence activated flow cytometry. White blood cells in whole blood are stained with a fluorochrome labeled isolectin-B4 (FITC-I-B4) and comparisons are made against blood obtained from wild type positive controls and the Gal-T-KO source animal twice. First, all source animals are tested at birth. Second, the same test will be performed from whole blood collected at sacrifice of the source animal and tested for stability of the gene knockout, and the negative phenotype for Alpha-Gal. The isolectin binds to the epitope on cells from the wild type pig but no binding occurs on the cells from the Gal-T-KO pigs. The assay serves to confirm alpha-gal epitope is not present in the genetically engineered source animal. Spontaneous re-activation of the gene, and re-expression of the Alpha-Gal moiety post sacrifice is highly improbable and unreasonable to expect; its inclusion would only deteriorate the efficacy of the xenotransplantation product causing it to resemble wild-type porcine tissue and hyperacutely reject as previously demonstrated.

g. PERV Viral Assay. PERV pol quantitation 10 uL of a 1:625 dilution of the RT reaction was amplified in a 50 cycle PERV polymerase quantitative TaqMan PCR in triplicate using a Stratagene MX300P real-time thermocycler (Agilent Technologies). 10 uL of a 1:25 dilution of the “No RT enzyme” control RT reaction was similarly treated. PCR conditions included PERV pol forward and reverse primers at 800 nM final concentration and PERV pol probe at 200 nM final concentration. Brilliant III Ultra Fast master mix (600880 Agilent Technologies) was used supplemented to 20 nM with ROX reporter dye (600880 A gilent Technologies) and 0.04 U nits/μL UNG nuclease (N8080096, Life Technologies). Cycling conditions included 1 cycle of 10 minutes at 50° C. followed by one cycle of 10 minutes at 95° C. and 50 cycles of 10 seconds at 95° C. followed by 30 seconds at 60° C. with data collected at the end of each cycle. Absolute copies of PERV pol, and of porcine MHC-I and porcine GAPDH nucleic acids were measured per nanogram of input cDNA. Punch biopsies of thawed as described herein and washed xenotransplantation product are tested for the presence of PERV DNA and RNA.

h. Histology and Morphology. Samples of the xenotransplantation product, following the described manufacturing process, are sampled for examination for cell morphology and organization. Verification under microscope via visible examination to ensure correct cell morphology and organization of xenotransplantation product tissues and absent for abnormal cell infiltrate populations.

i. Release Assay Sampling Methodology. Once all units of the final xenotransplantation product lot have been created, units are independently, randomly selected for use in manufacturing release assays for the required acceptance criteria. These units will be marked for lot release to the various laboratory contractors, and the various analytical tests will be performed per the required cGMP conditions.

Similarly, prior to validation for human clinical use, all final xenotransplantation product must meet acceptance criteria for selecting a donor pig for material including (i) reviewing the medical record for a defined pedigree, (ii) reviewing the medical record for the test results for alpha-1,3-galactose by Flowmetrics, (iii) reviewing the medical record for a history of full vaccinations; (iv) reviewing the medical record for the surveillance tests performed over the lifetime of the pig; (v) adventitious agent screening of source animal; (vi) reviewing the medical record for infections over the lifetime of the pig; and (vi) reviewing the medical record for any skin abnormalities noted in the animal's history.

The final xenotransplantation product control strategy and analytical testing is conducted at the conclusion of the manufacturing process prior to release for clinical use. Results of the required analytical tests will be documented via a xenotransplantation product drug product Certificate of Analysis (COA) that is maintained with a master batch record pertaining to each lot of xenotransplantation product drug product.

The following Table 3 is a list of the assays and results of the battery of tests performed on the xenotransplantation product materials.

TABLE 3 Sample Material Test Test Method Tested Result Sterility Testing Tissue Culture 3 mm Punch No growth detected Aerobic Bacteria Biopsy of Anaerobic Bacteria Xenotrans- Fungi plantation Acid fast cultures product Specific bacterial (Post Thaw) screen Mycological Screen Mycoplasma Assay 3 mm Punch No growth Biopsy of detected after 28 Xenotrans- days plantation product (Post Thaw) Bacteriostasis & USP<71> Xenotrans- Bacteriostatic, no Fungistasis Gibraltar Laboratory plantation growth of specific product indicator organism (Post Thaw) Endotoxin Test USP<85> LAL, Xenotrans- <0.2 EU/unit Kinetic plantation Chromogenic Test product (Post Thaw) Endogenous Viral Testing RT-qPCR 3 mm Punch Presence of (PERV) Co-culture Assay Biopsy of PERV A, B, MGH- Xenotrans- C Infectious plantation confirmed Disease- product Fishman (Post Thaw) Laboratory Viability Testing MTT and 3 mm Punch Greater than 70% Phenyl Acetate Biopsy Mitochondrial Assays of Activity remaining Xenotrans- following freeze-thaw plantation cycle, confirmed by product both assays (Post Thaw) Identity Histology, 3 mm Punch No abnormalities Cell Morphology Hematoxylin and Biopsy noted. Eosin Staining of Cell morphology Xenotranspl and organization antation consistent with skin product graft (Post Thaw) No presence of Alpha-GAL detected Confirmation Flow Cytometry, Whole Blood, 2 of absence of isolectin-B4 (FITC- ml, obtained Alpha-GAL I-B4) from source (Gal-T- animal, at Knockout sacrifice. confirmation)

In another aspect it will be understood that there includes an adventitious agent control strategy developed based on the source animal, including the species, strain, geographic origin, type of tissue, and proposed indication. Analytical Tests are conducted for adventitious agents, to include bacteria, fungi, mycoplasma, and viral microorganisms, including as follows:

j. Bacteriological Free Status—The bacteriological screen is conducted to confirm the drug product is free of potential biological agents of concern Humans. Both Aerobic and Anaerobic screens are conducted to ensure sterility. Samples are thawed as described herein and transferred to Tryptic Soy Broth (TSB) or Fluid Thioglycollate Medium (FTM) as appropriate. Vessels will be incubated to allow for potential growth. If no evidence of microbial growth is found, the product will be judged to comply with the test for sterility.

k. Mycological (Fungal) Free Status—The mycological screen is conducted to confirm the Drug Product is free of potential fungal agents of concern. Samples are thawed as described herein. After thawing, samples are transferred to a soybean-casein digest agar. Vessels will be incubated to allow for potential growth. If no evidence of fungal growth is found, the product will be judged to comply with the test for sterility per USP<71>.

1. Mycoplasma Free Status—The mycoplasma screen is conducted to confirm the drug product is free of mycoplasma. Samples are thawed as described herein and added to 100 mL of Mycoplasma broth and incubated at 37° C. for up to 21 days. The sample is sub-cultured after 2-4 days, 7-10 days, 14 days, and 21 days. The plates are then incubated at 37° C. for up to 14 days and checked for the presence of Mycoplasma colonies. If none are detected, the product is found to be in compliance with USP<63> and is mycoplasma free.

m. Endotoxin Free Status—The endotoxin free status is conducted to confirm the drug product is free of endotoxins and related agents of concern. Three samples from the same lot will be tested for the Inhibition/Enhancement of the Limulus amoebocyte lysate (LAL) test. Samples will be thawed as described herein and extracted with 40 mL of WFI per sample at 37° C. for 1 hour. Samples will then be tested in the LAL Kinetic Chromogenic Test with a standard curve ranging from 5-50EU/mL at a validated dilution. Assays will be performed in compliance with USP<85>.

n. Viral Assays Conducted—The viral assays are conducted to confirm the source animal is free of potential viral agents of concern, confirmation of endogenous viruses (see below). This includes co-culturing and RT-PCR testing for specific latent endogenous viruses including PERV. In vivo assays are also conducted on the animal source to monitor animal health and freedom from viral infection as key aspects of the lot release criteria. Due to the endemic nature of PERV in porcine tissue, this qualifies as a positive result that does not preclude the use of such tissue. However, the virus is identified and characterized in lot release to provide information for monitoring the recipient of the xenotransplantation product.

o. Cell Viability Assay—The MTT assay is conducted to confirm the biologically active status of cells in the xenotransplantation product. Evidence of viability is provided through surrogate markers of mitochondrial activity as compared to positive (fresh, not cryopreserved) and negative (heat-denatured) controls. The activity of the cells is required for the xenotransplantation product to afford the intended clinical function. This is required as a lot release criteria, and is currently established that tissue viability should not be less than 50% of the metabolic activity demonstrated by the fresh tissue control comparator.

p. Histology and Morphology—Verification under microscope via visible examination of Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) section staining of the epidermal and dermal layers, to ensure correct cell morphology and organization of the xenotransplantation product tissues and cell infiltrate populations. This is conducted to confirm the appropriate physiologic appearance and identity of cells present in the xenotransplantation product. The xenotransplantation product is composed of minimally manipulated porcine dermal and epidermal tissue layers. This is required as a lot release criteria. Evidence of the following cell layers (from most superficial to deepest), in the epidermal layer are verified:

-   -   i. Stratum Corneum     -   ii. Stratum Granulosum     -   iii. Stratum Spinosum     -   iv. Stratum B asale         Evidence of the following cellular structures in the dermal         layer are verified:     -   v. Blood vessels, evidence of vasculature     -   vi. Nerves     -   vii. Various glands     -   viii. Hair follicles     -   ix. Collagen

The genetically engineered source animals do not contain any foreign, introduced DNA into the genome; the gene modification employed is exclusively a knock-out of a single gene that was responsible for encoding for an enzyme that causes ubiquitous expression of a cell-surface antigen. It will be understood that the xenotransplantation product in one or more aspects do not incorporate transgene technologies, such as CD-46 or CD-55 transgenic constructs.

An endotoxin free status is conducted to confirm the drug product is free of endotoxins and related agents of concern. Protocols for the assurance of Endotoxin free status are as follows: Three samples from the same lot are tested for Inhibition/Enhancement of the Limulus amoebocyte lysate (LAL) test. Samples are thawed, extracted, and tested in the LAL Kinetic Chromogenic Test with a standard curve ranging from 5-50EU/mL at a validated dilution in compliance with USP<85>.

The MTT assay is conducted to confirm the biologically active status of cells in the product. Evidence of viability is provided through surrogate markers of mitochondrial activity as compared to positive (fresh, not cryopreserved) and negative (heat-denatured) controls. The activity of the cells is required for the product to afford the intended clinical function and the viability parameters for one aspect ranging from 50% to 100% mitochondrial activity.

Verification under microscope via visible examination of Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) section staining of the epidermal and dermal layers, to ensure correct cell morphology and organization of the xenotransplantation product tissues and cell infiltrate populations. This is conducted to confirm the appropriate physiologic appearance and identity of cells present in the product.

For skin xenotransplantation products, evidence of the following cell layers (from most superficial to deepest), in the epidermal layer are verified: Stratum Corneum; Stratum Granulosum; Stratum Spinosum; Stratum Basale. Evidence of the following cellular structures in the dermal layer are verified: Blood vessels, evidence of vasculature; Nerves; Various glands; Hair follicles; Collagen.

The xenotransplantation product may be further processed to ensure that it remains free of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, fungi, viruses, and mycoplasma. Under sterile conditions in a laminar flow hood in a drug product processing suite using applicable aseptic techniques, immediately after, within 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 seconds, within 10 seconds to 1 minute, within 1 minute to 1 hour, within 1 hour to 15 hours, or within 15 hours to 24 hours following harvest, the xenotransplantation product is sterilized, e.g., using one or more of UV irradiation or an anti-microbial/anti-fungal. In one aspect, the product may be placed into an anti-microbial/anti-fungal bath (“antipathogen bath”). The antipathogen bath may include: one or more anti-bacterial agents, e.g., ampicillin, ceftazidime, neomycin, streptomycin, chloramphenicol, cephalosporin, penicillin, tetracycline, vancomyocin, and the like; one or more anti-fungal agents, e.g., amphotericin-B, azoles, imidazoles, triazoles, thiazoles, candicidin, hamycin, natamycin, nystatin, rimocidin, allylamines, echinocandins, and the like; and/or one or more anti-viral agents. The anti-pathogen bath may include a carrier or medium as a diluent, e.g., RPMI-1640 medium. In some aspects, the anti-pathogen bath may include at least 2 anti-bacterial agents. In some aspects, the anti-pathogen bath may include at least 2 anti-bacterial agents and at least one anti-fungal agent. In some aspects, the anti-pathogen bath may include at least four agents. In some aspects, the anti-pathogen bath may include no more than 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 agents. In some aspects, the anti-pathogen bath may include any combination of the foregoing.

The product may be sterilized using UV light sterilization. For example, the product is placed under the UV lamp for a desired period of time, e.g., 0.5, 1, 1,5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, minutes or more, then turned over to the other side, and put under the UV lamp for the same or a different period of time on opposite side. The time period for exposing a given sample to the UV may be varied based on the specific biological agents or the types of biological agents to be sterilized, e.g., as shown in the following Table 11 below. For example, the product may be sterilized using a UV lamp having a UV-C intensity of at least 100 uW/cm² for at least 2 minutes and up to 15, 12, 10, 8, 6, 5, 4, 3, or 2.5 minutes, and turned over such that its opposite surface is exposed to the UV lamp for at least 2 minutes and up to 15, 12, 10, 8, 6, 5, 4, 3, or 2.5 minutes to obtain a UV-treated product; a UV-C dosage of at least 100,000 uW sec/cm² and up to 800,000, 700,000, 600,000, 500,000, 400,000, 300,000 or 200,000 uW sec/cm²; a UV-C dosage of at least 200,000 uW sec/cm² and up to 800,000, 700,000, 600,000, 500,000, 400,000, or 300,000 uW sec/cm²; a UV lamp having a UV-C intensity of at least 100 uW/cm² for at least 2 minutes and up to 15, 12, 10, 8, 6, 5, 4, 3, or 2.5 minutes.

Product processing occurs in a single, continuous, and self-contained, segregated manufacturing event that begins with the sacrifice of the source animal through completion of the production of the final product. The animal is euthanized via captive bolt euthanasia, may be moved, if necessary, in a sterile, non-porous bag, to an operating room where the procedure to harvest biological product from the source animal will occur. All members of the operating team should be in full sterile surgical gear, e.g., dressed in sterile dress to maintain designated pathogen free conditions prior to receiving the source animal and in some instanced be double-gloved to minimize contamination, and surgical areas and tools are sterilized. The source animal is removed from the bag and container in an aseptic fashion. The source animal is scrubbed by operating staff, e.g., for at least 1-10 minutes with antiseptic, e.g., Chlorhexidine, brushes over the entire area of the animal where the operation will occur, periodically pouring Chlorhexidine over the area to ensure coverage. Surgical area(s) of the animal are scrubbed with opened Betadine brushes and sterile water rinse over the entire area of the animal where the operation will occur for, e.g., 1-10 minutes.

In one aspect, with regard to skin, a full thickness skin graft wound dressing consisting of dermal tissue derived from a swine in accordance with the present invention is used in conjunction or combination with cultured epidermal autografts to produce a product according to the present disclosure and that can be used in methods of the present disclosure. Prior to application of the epidermal autografts, significant debridement of wound bed is required to ensure an adequate substrate. To confirm a wound bed is ready for an epidermal autograft, apply the skin products described herein, e.g., biological skin products derived from animals of the present disclosure to confirm adherence. Once adherence is confirmed, the temporary wound coverage product is removed, and in some aspects, the wound bed is covered with a meshed autograft, and one or more cultured epidermal autograft products are placed on top to close the gaps in the autograft mesh.

The debridement may include mechanical debridement, chemical debridement, enzymatic debridement, or a combination thereof. Mechanical debridement may include surgical excision, e.g., tangential excision to remove thin layers of dermis until healthy tissue is visualized, or fascial excision to remove the full thickness of dermis down to the underlying fascia. Tangential excision allows less viable tissue to be removed with the necrotic tissue, but typically results in higher blood loss, is a larger physiologic stressor than fascial excision, and is more likely to result in “incomplete” debridement, with some devitalized tissue remaining in place. In fascial excision, blood loss and operative time are minimized, but often a large amount of healthy tissue is removed with the burned tissue. Debriding agents may include agents capable of cleaning a burn wound by removing foreign material and dead tissue. Many such agents are known. In enzymatic debridement, collagenases or other proteolytic enzymes are employed that break down proteins of the extracellular matrix, allowing devitalized tissue to be wiped away without the need for surgery while preferably leaving healthy tissue substantially intact. Enzymatic debridement involves the application of proteolytic and optionally other exogenous enzymes to a wound surface to break down necrotic tissue. Enzymatic debridement may be a relatively slow process, carried out over a period of a number of weeks in combination with other topical preparations, soakings and repeated dressings. Alternately, rapid enzymatic debridement can be accomplished using multi-enzyme products, for example, those extracted from the stem of the pineapple plant, as disclosed for example in WO 98/053850 and WO 2006/0006167, and as provided in the product marketed under the trade name Debrase®. A procedure for enzymatic debridement generally utilizes an enzyme such as bromelain derivatives, debridase, collagenase, papain derivatives, streptokinase, sutilains, fibrinolysin, deoxyribonuclease, krill derivatives, trypsin or combinations thereof. Autolytic debridement relies on enhancing the natural process of selective liquefaction, separation and digestion of necrotic tissue and eschar from healthy tissue that occurs in wounds due to macrophage and endogenous proteolytic activity. This is achieved by the use of occlusive, semi-occlusive or moist interactive dressings. Enzymatic debridement agents include a bromelain enriched enzyme product, other collagenases, or other enzyme products capable of clearing devitalized tissue or wound debris. NexoBrid™ (MediWound Ltd.) is one such bromelain enriched product that specifically targets heat-denatured collagen for degradation, resulting in partial-thickness and full-thickness wounds requiring a wound coverage or dressing product. Such products and methods are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,540,983; 8,119,124; 7,128,719; 7,794,709; 8,624,077; and US2009/0010910A1, each of which is incorporated by reference herein.

In some aspects, the wound bed may include or be a chronic wound or an acute wound. Chronic wounds include but are not limited to venous leg ulcers, pressure ulcers, and diabetic foot ulcers. Acute wounds include but are not limited to burns, traumatic injuries, amputation wounds, skin graft donor sites, bite wounds, frostbite wounds, dermabrasions, and surgical wounds.

In the cases where there is no dermis, biological products produced in accordance with the present invention are utilized. The epidermis is removed from such products (e.g., before dermis harvesting on the pig with a VERSAJET™ Hydrosurgery system), so that just the dermis remains. Then, the subject biological product is placed on the patient's subcutaneous tissue, serving as a substrate for the cultured epidermal autograft process described herein.

In one aspect, a liver derived in accordance with the present disclosure is utilized for extracorporeal perfusion as a temporary filter for a human patient until a patient receives a human transplant. In an operating area within the DPF Isolation Area, a source animal is placed under a general anesthetic (ketamine, xylazine, enflurane) or euthanized by captive bolt. A hepatectomy is then performed on the source animal in designated pathogen free conditions. The liver product derived from the source animal can be packaged and transported to the location of the procedure in accordance with current practice with human donor livers. The procedure to utilize the liver filtration product can be performed, for example, by percutaneously cannulating a human patient's internal jugular vein for venous return with an arterial cannula and percutaneously cannulating a patient's femoral vein for venous outflow with an artery cannula. These cannulas are connected to a bypass circuit, having a centrifugal pump, a heat exchanger, an oxygenator, and a roller pump incorporated therein. This circuit is primed with crystalloids and run for a period of time (e.g., 10-30 minutes) before the liver from an animal according to the present disclosure is incorporated at a stabilized flow rate, e.g., 600-1000 ml/min, maintained in a crystalloid bath occasionally supplemented with warm solution, e.g., 30-40° C.

It will be understood that, in the context of swine-to-human xenotransplantation, each human recipient will have a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) (Class I, Class II and/or Class III) that is unique to that individual and will not match the MHC of the donor swine. Accordingly, it will be understood that when a donor swine graft is introduced to the recipient, the swine MHC molecules themselves act as non-gal xeno-antigens, provoking an immune response from the recipient, leading to transplant rejection.

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes show incredible sequence diversity in the human population. For example, there are >4,000 known alleles for the HLA-B gene alone. The genetic diversity in HLA genes in which different alleles have different efficiencies for presenting different antigens is believed to be a result of evolution conferring better population-level resistance against the wide range of different pathogens to which humans are exposed. This genetic diversity also presents problems during xenotransplantation where the recipient's immune response is the most important factor dictating the outcome of engraftment and survival after transplantation.

In accordance with one aspect the present invention, a donor swine is provided with a genome that is biologically engineered to express a specific set of known human HLA molecules. Such HLA sequences are available, e.g., in the IPD-IMGT/HLA database (available at ebi.ac.uk/ipd/imgt/hla/) and the international ImMunoGeneTics information System® (available at imgt.org). For example, HLA-A1, B8, DR17 is the most common HLA haplotype among Caucasians, with a frequency of 5%. Thus, the disclosed method can be performed using the known MHC/HLA sequence information in combination with the disclosures provided herein.

In some aspects, the recipient's human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes and MHC (Class I, II and/or III), are identified and mapped. It will be understood that ascertaining the human recipient's HLA/MHC sequence can be done in any number of ways known in the art. For example, HLA/MHC genes are usually typed with targeted sequencing methods: either long-read sequencing or long-insert short-read sequencing. Conventionally, HLA types have been determined at 2-digit resolution (e.g., A*01), which approximates the serological antigen groupings. More recently, sequence specific oligonucleotide probes (SSOP) method has been used for HLA typing at 4-digit resolution (e.g., A*01:01), which can distinguish amino acid differences. Currently, targeted DNA sequencing for HLA typing is the most popular approach for HLA typing over other conventional methods. Since the sequence-based approach directly determines both coding and non-coding regions, it can achieve HLA typing at 6-digit (e.g., A*01:01:01) and 8-digit (e.g., A*01:01:01:01) resolution, respectively. HLA typing at the highest resolution is desirable to distinguish existing HLA alleles from new alleles or null alleles from clinical perspective. Such sequencing techniques are described in, for example, Elsner HA, Blasczyk R: (2004) Immunogenetics of HLA null alleles: implications for blood stem cell transplantation. Tissue antigens. 64 (6): 687-695; Erlich R L, et al (2011) Next-generation sequencing for HLA typing of Class I loci. BMC genomics. 12: 42-10.1186/1471-2164-12-42; Szolek A, et al. (2014) OptiType: Precision HLA typing from next-generation sequencing data. Bioinformatics 30:3310-3316; Nariai N, et al. (2015) HLA-VBSeq: Accurate HLA typing at full resolution from whole-genome sequencing data. BMC Genomics 16:S7; Dilthey A T, et al. (2016) High-accuracy HLA type inference from whole-genome sequencing data using population reference graphs. PLoS Comput Biol 12:e1005151; Xie C., et al. (2017) Fast and accurate HLA typing from short-read next-generation sequence data with xHLA 114 (30) 8059-8064, each of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

The known human HLA/MHC or an individual recipient's sequenced HLA/MHC sequence(s) may be utilized as a template to modify the swine leukocyte antigen (SLA)/MHC sequence to match, e.g., to have 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence homology to a known human HLA/MHC sequence or the human recipient's HLA/MHC sequence. Upon identifying a known human recipient HLA/MHC sequence to be used or performing genetic sequencing of a human recipient to obtain HLA/MHC sequences, biological reprogramming may be performed to SLA/MHC sequences in cells of the swine based on desired HLA/MHC sequences. For example, several targeting guide RNA (gRNA) sequences are administered to the swine of the present disclosure to reprogram SLA/MHC sequences in cells of the swine with the template HLA/MHC sequences of the human recipient.

CRISPR-Cas9 is used to mediate rapid and scarless exchange of entire MHC alleles at specific native locus in swine cells. Multiplex targeting of Cas9 with two gRNAs is used to introduce single or double-stranded breaks flanking the MHC allele, enabling replacement with the template HLA/MHC sequence (provided as a single or double-stranded DNA template). In certain aspects, the CRISPR/Cas9 components are injected into swine oocytes, ova, zygotes, or blastocytes prior to transfer into foster mothers.

In certain aspects, the present disclosure includes embryogenesis and live birth of SLA-free and HLA-expressing biologically reprogrammed swine. In certain aspects, the present disclosure includes breeding SLA-free and HLA-expressing biologically reprogrammed swine to create SLA-free and HLA-expressing progeny. In certain aspects, the CRISPR/Cas9 components are injected into swine zygotes by intracytoplasmic microinjection of porcine zygotes. In certain aspects, the CRISPR/Cas9 components are injected into swine prior to selective breeding of the CRISPR/Cas9 genetically modified swine. In certain aspects, the CRISPR/Cas9 components are injected into donor swine prior to harvesting cells, tissues, zygotes, and/or organs from the swine. In certain aspects, the CRISPR/Cas9 components include all necessary components for controlled gene editing including self-inactivation utilizing governing gRNA molecules as described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,834,791 (Zhang), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The genetic modification can be made utilizing known genome editing techniques, such as zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene editing, and clustered regular interspaced palindromic repeat Cas9 (CRISPR-Cas9). These programmable nucleases enable the targeted generation of DNA double-stranded breaks (DSB), which promote the upregulation of cellular repair mechanisms, resulting in either the error-prone process of non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) or homology-directed repair (HDR), the latter of which can be used to integrate exogenous donor DNA templates. CRISPR-Cas9 may also be used to remove viral infections in cells. For example, the genetic modification via CRISPR-Cas9 can be performed in a manner described in Kelton, W. et. al., “Reprogramming MHC specificity by CRISPR-Cas9-assisted cassette exchange,” Nature, Scientific Reports, 7:45775 (2017) (“Kelton”), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Accordingly, the present disclosure includes reprogramming using CRISPR-Cas9 to mediate rapid and scarless exchange of entire alleles, e.g., MHC, HLA, SLA, etc.

In one aspect, the recipient's HLA/MHC gene is sequenced and template HLA/MHC sequences are prepared based on the recipient's HLA/MHC genes. In another aspect, a known human HLA/MHC genotype from a WHO database may be used for genetic reprogramming of swine of the present disclosure. CRISPR-Cas9 plasmids are prepared, e.g., using polymerase chain reaction and the recipient's HLA/MHC sequences are cloned into the plasmids as templates. CRISPR cleavage sites at the SLA/MHC locus in the swine cells are identified and gRNA sequences targeting the cleavage sites and are cloned into one or more CRISPR-Cas9 plasmids. CRISPR-Cas9 plasmids are then administered into the swine cells and CRIPSR/Cas9 cleavage is performed at the MHC locus of the swine cells.

The SLA/MHC locus in the swine cells are replaced with one or more template HLA/MHC sequences matching the known human HLA/MHC sequences or the recipient's sequenced HLA/MHC genes. Cells of the swine are sequenced after performing the SLA/MHC reprogramming steps in order to determine if the HLA/MHC sequences in the swine cells have been successfully reprogrammed. One or more cells, tissues, and/or organs from the HLA/MHC sequence-reprogrammed swine are transplanted into a human recipient.

In certain aspects, HLA/MHC sequence-reprogrammed swine are bred for at least one generation, or at least two generations, before their use as a source for live tissues, organs and/or cells used in xenotransplantation. In certain aspects, the CRISPR/Cas9 components can also be utilized to inactivate genes responsible for PERV activity, e.g., the pol gene, thereby simultaneously completely eliminating PERV from the swine donors.

For purposes of modifying donor SLA/MHC to match recipient HLA/MHC, comparative genomic organization of the human and swine histocompatibility complex has been mapped. For example, such SLA to HLA mapping can be found in: Lunney, J., “Molecular genetics of the swine major histocompatibility complex, the SLA complex,” Developmental and Comparative Immunology 33: 362-374 (2009) (“Lunney”), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Accordingly, a person of ordinary skill in the art effectively and efficiently genetically reprogram swine cells in view of the present disclosure and using the mapping of Lunney et al. as a reference tool.

The modification to the donor SLA/MHC to match recipient HLA/MHC causes expression of specific MHC molecules from the swine cells that are identical, or virtually identical, to the MHC molecules of a known human genotype or the specific human recipient. In one aspect, the present disclosure involves making modifications limited to only specific portions of specific SLA regions of the swine's genome to retain an effective immune profile in the swine while biological products are hypoimmunogenic when transplanted into human recipients such that use of immunosuppressants can be reduced or avoided. In contrast to aspects of the present disclosure, xenotransplantation studies of the prior art required immunosuppressant use to resist rejection. In one aspect, the swine genome is reprogrammed to knock-out swine genes corresponding to HLA-A, HLA-B, HLA-C, and DR, and to knock-in HLA-C, HLA-E, HLA-G. In some aspects, the swine genome is reprogrammed to knock-out swine genes corresponding to HLA-A, HLA-B, HLA-C, HLA-F, DQ, and DR, and to knock-in HLA-C, HLA-E, HLA-G. In some aspects, the swine genome is reprogrammed to knock-out swine genes corresponding to HLA-A, HLA-B, HLA-C, HLA-F, DQ, and DR, and to knock-in HLA-C, HLA-E, HLA-G, HLA-F, and DQ. In one aspect, the swine genome is reprogrammed to knock-out SLA-11; SLA-6,7,8; SLA-MIC2; and SLA-DQA; SLA-DQB1; SLA-DQB2, and to knock-in HLA-C; HLA-E; HLA-G; and HLA-DQ. In certain aspects, HLA-C expression is reduced in the reprogrammed swine genome. By reprogramming the swine cells to be invisible to a human's immune system, this reprogramming thereby minimizes or even eliminates an immune response that would have otherwise occurred based on swine MHC molecules otherwise expressed from the donor swine cells.

It will therefore be understood that this aspect (i.e., reprogramming the SLA/MHC to express specifically selected human MHC alleles), when applied to swine cells, tissues, and organs for purposes of xenotransplantation will decrease rejection as compared to cells, tissues, and organs derived from a wild-type swine or otherwise genetically modified swine that lacks this reprogramming, e.g., transgenic swine or swine with non-specific or different genetic modifications.

It will be further understood that causing the donor swine cells, tissues, and organs to express a known human MHC genotype or the recipient's MHC specifically as described herein, combined with the elimination in the donor swine cells of alpha-1,3-galactosytransferase, Neu5Gc, and β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase (B4GALNT2) (e.g., “single knockout,” “double knockout,” or “triple knockout”), presents a swine whose cells will have a decreased immunological rejection as compared to a triple knockout swine that lacks the specific SLA/MHC reprogramming of the present disclosure.

Cryopreservation and storage according to the present disclosure includes preparing biological product according to the present disclosures, placing in a container, adding freeze media to the container and sealing. For example, 15% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) cryoprotective media is combined with fetal porcine serum (FPS) or donor serum (if FPS is unavailable) in a 1:1 ratio, filtered (0.45 micron), and chilled to 4° C. prior to use. The containers are subsequently frozen in a controlled rate, phase freezer at a rate of 1° C. per minute to −40° C., then rapidly cooled to a temperature −80° C. DMSO displaces intracellular fluid during the freezing process. Cryoprotective media, e.g., CryoStor is used in an amount of about 40-80%, or 50-70% based on maximum internal volume of the cryovial (10 ml) less the volume of the xenotransplantation product. In order to thaw the cryopreserved biological product for surgical use, sealed vials were placed in ˜37° C. water baths for approximately 0.5 to 2 minutes, at which point the container is opened and the product was removed using sterile technique. Subsequently, products undergo three, 1-minute serial washes, e.g., in saline with gentle agitation, in order to dilute and systematically remove ambient, residual DMSO and prevent loss of cell viability. The product may then be used surgically.

It will be understood that the xenotransplantation product may be processed, stored, transported, and/or otherwise handled using materials, containers and processes to ensure preserved sterility and prevent damage thereto. In some aspects, a sterile non-adhesive material may be used to protect the xenotransplantation product, e.g., to support the xenotransplantation product and prevent adhesive of the product to surfaces and/or to prevent self-adhesion of the xenotransplantation product during manipulation, storage, or transport. Unintentional adhesion of the xenotransplantation product may disrupt the integrity of the xenotransplantation product and potentially reduce its therapeutic viability. Inclusion of the sterile non-adhesive material provides protection and/or physical support and prevents adhesion. In some aspects, the sterile non-adhesive material is not biologically or chemically active and does not directly impact the metabolic activity or efficacy of the xenotransplantation product itself.

Aspects of the present disclosure are further described by the following non-limiting list of items:

Item 1. A biological system for generating and preserving a repository of personalized, humanized transplantable cells, tissues, and organs for transplantation, wherein the biological system is biologically active and metabolically active, the biological system comprising genetically reprogrammed cells, tissues, and organs in a non-human animal for transplantation into a human recipient,

wherein the non-human animal is a genetically reprogrammed swine for xenotransplantation of cells, tissue, and/or an organ isolated from the genetically reprogrammed swine, the genetically reprogrammed swine comprising a nuclear genome that has been reprogrammed to replace a plurality of nucleotides in a plurality of exon regions of a major histocompatibility complex of a wild-type swine with a plurality of synthesized nucleotides from a human captured reference sequence, and

wherein cells of said genetically reprogrammed swine do not present one or more surface glycan epitopes selected from alpha-Gal, Neu5Gc, and SDa, and

wherein genes encoding alpha-1,3 galactosyltransferase, cytidine monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase (CMAH), and β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase are altered such that the genetically reprogrammed swine lacks functional expression of surface glycan epitopes encoded by said genes,

wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of: i) at least one of the wild-type swine's SLA-1, SLA-2, and SLA-3 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C, respectively, of the human captured reference sequence; and ii) at least one the wild-type swine's SLA-6, SLA-7, and SLA-8 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G, respectively, of the human captured reference sequence; and iii) at least one of the wild-type swine's SLA-DR and SLA-DQ with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of HLA-DR and HLA-DQ, respectively, of the human captured reference sequence,

wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises at least one of A-C:

A) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's β2-microglobulin with nucleotides from orthologous exons of a known human β2-microglobulin from the human captured reference sequence; B) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome comprises a polynucleotide that encodes a polypeptide that is a humanized beta 2 microglobulin (hB2M) polypeptide sequence that is at least 95% identical to the amino acid sequence of beta 2 microglobulin glycoprotein expressed by the human captured reference genome; C) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome has been reprogrammed such that, at the swine's endogenous β2-microglobulin locus, the nuclear genome has been reprogrammed to comprise a nucleotide sequence encoding β2-microglobulin polypeptide of the human recipient,

wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome has been reprogrammed such that the genetically reprogrammed swine lacks functional expression of the wild-type swine's endogenous β2-microglobulin polypeptides, and

wherein said reprogramming does not introduce any frameshifts or frame disruptions.

Item 2. The biological system of item 1, wherein the genetically reprogrammed swine is non-transgenic.

Item 3. The biological system of item 1 or item 2, wherein intron regions of the wild-type swine's genome are not reprogrammed.

Item 4. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-3, wherein said genetically reprogrammed swine is free of at least the following pathogens: Ascaris species, cryptosporidium species, Echinococcus, Strongyloids sterocolis, Toxoplasma gondii, Brucella suis, Leptospira species, mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome, pseudorabies, staphylococcus species, Microphyton species, Trichophyton species, porcine influenza, porcine cytomegalovirus, arterivirus, coronavirus, Bordetella bronchiseptica, and Livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Item 5. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-4, wherein said genetically reprogrammed swine is maintained according to a bioburden-reducing procedure, said procedure comprising maintaining the swine in an isolated closed herd, wherein all other animals in the isolated closed herd are confirmed to be free of said pathogens, and wherein the swine is isolated from contact with any non-human animals and animal housing facilities outside of the isolated closed herd.

Item 6. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-4, wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at SLA-MIC-2 gene and at exon regions encoding SLA-3, SLA-6, SLA-7, SLA-8, SLA-DQ, CTLA-4, PD-L1, EPCR, TBM, TFPI, and beta-2-microglobulin using the human capture reference sequence, wherein the human cell, tissue, or organ lacks functional expression of swine beta-2-microglobulin, SLA-1, SLA-2, and SLA-DR.

Item 7. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-5, wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at one or more of a CTLA-4 promoter and a PD-L1 promoter, wherein the one or more of the CTLA-4 promoter and the PD-L1 promoter are reprogrammed to increase expression of one or both of reprogrammed CTLA-4 and reprogrammed PD-L1 compared to the wild-type swine's endogenous expression of CTLA-4 and PD-L1.

Item 8. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-6, wherein a total number of the synthesized nucleotides is equal to a total number of the replaced nucleotides, such that there is no net loss or net gain in number of nucleotides after reprogramming the genome of the wild-type swine with the synthesized nucleotides.

Item 9. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-7, wherein the reprogramming with the plurality of synthesized nucleotides do not include replacement of nucleotides in codon regions that encode amino acids that are conserved between the wild-type swine MHC sequence and the human captured reference sequence

Item 10. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-8, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at the major histocompatibility complex of the wild-type swine with orthologous nucleotides from the human captured reference sequence.

Item 11. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-9, wherein site-directed mutagenic substitutions are made in germ-line cells used to produce the non-human animal.

Item 12. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-10, wherein the human captured reference sequence is a human patient capture sequence, a human population-specific human capture sequence, or an allele-group-specific human capture sequence.

Item 13. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-11, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-1 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-A captured reference sequence.

Item 14. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-12, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-2 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-B captured reference sequence.

Item 14. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-13, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-3 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-C captured reference sequence.

Item 15. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-14, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-6 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-E captured reference sequence.

Item 16. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-15, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-7 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-F captured reference sequence.

Item 17. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-16, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-8 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-G captured reference sequence.

Item 18. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-17, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's MHC class I chain-related 2 (MIC-2).

Item 19. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-18, wherein the reprogrammed genome lacks functional expression of SLA-1, SLA-2, SLA-DR, or a combination thereof.

Item 20. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-19, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-DQA from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-DQA1 captured reference sequence.

Item 21. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-20, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-DQB from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-DQB1 captured reference sequence.

Item 22. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-21, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-DRA and SLA-DRB1 with nucleotides from orthologous exon regions of HLA-DRA1 and HLA-DRB1 of the human captured reference sequence, or wherein the reprogrammed genome lacks functional expression of SLA-DRA and SLA-DRB1.

Item 23. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-22, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-DQA and SLA-DQB1 with nucleotides from orthologous exon regions of HLA-DQA1 and HLA-DQB1 of the human captured reference sequence.

Item 24. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-23, wherein the site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides are at codons that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's nuclear genome and the known human sequence.

Item 25. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-24, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's B2-microglobulin with nucleotides from orthologous exons of a known human B2-microglobulin.

Item 26. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-25, wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome comprises a polynucleotide that encodes a polypeptide that is a humanized beta 2 microglobulin (hB2M) polypeptide sequence that is at least 95% identical to the amino acid sequence of beta 2 microglobulin glycoprotein expressed by the human captured reference genome;

Item 27. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-26, wherein said nuclear genome has been reprogrammed such that the genetically reprogrammed swine lacks functional expression of the wild-type swine's endogenous β2-microglobulin polypeptides.

Item 28. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-27, wherein said nuclear genome has been reprogrammed such that, at the swine's endogenous β2-microglobulin locus, the nuclear genome has been reprogrammed to comprise a nucleotide sequence encoding β2-microglobulin polypeptide of the human captured reference sequence.

Item 29. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-28, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of SLA-3, SLA-6, SLA-7, SLA-8, and MIC-2.

Item 30. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-29, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of SLA-DQ and MIC-2.

Item 31. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-30, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at SLA-3, SLA-6, SLA-7, SLA-8, SLA-DQ, and MIC-2.

Item 32. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-31, wherein the reprogrammed genome lacks functional expression of SLA-DR, SLA-1, and/or SLA-2.

Item 33. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-32, wherein the nuclear genome is reprogrammed using scarless exchange of the exon regions, wherein there are no frameshifts, insertion mutations, deletion mutations, missense mutations, and nonsense mutations.

Item 34. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-33, wherein the nuclear genome is reprogrammed without introduction of any net insertions, deletions, truncations, or other genetic alterations that would cause a disruption of protein expression via frame shift, nonsense, or missense mutations.

Item 35. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-34, wherein nucleotides in intron regions of the nuclear genome are not altered.

Item 36. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-35, wherein said nuclear genome is reprogrammed to be homozygous at the reprogrammed exon regions.

Item 37. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-36, wherein said nuclear genome is reprogrammed such that extracellular, phenotypic surface expression of polypeptide is tolerogenic in a human recipient.

Item 38. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-37, wherein said nuclear genome is reprogrammed such that expression of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) is increased by reprogramming a CTLA-4 promoter sequence.

Item 39. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-38, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type CTLA-4 with nucleotides from orthologous exons of a human captured reference sequence CTLA-4.

Item 40. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-39, wherein the reprogrammed nuclear genome comprises a polynucleotide that encodes a protein that is a humanized CTLA-4 polypeptide sequence that is at least 95% identical to CTLA-4 expressed by the human captured reference genome.

Item 41. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-40, wherein said nuclear genome is reprogrammed such that expression of Programmed death-ligand 1(PD-L1) is increased by reprogramming a PD-L1 promoter sequence.

Item 42. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-41, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type PD-L1 with nucleotides from orthologous exons of a known human PD-L1.

Item 43. The biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-42, wherein the reprogrammed nuclear genome comprises a polynucleotide that encodes a protein that is a humanized PD-L1polypeptide sequence that is at least 95% identical to PD-L1 expressed by the human captured reference genome.

Item 44. A genetically reprogrammed, biologically active and metabolically active non-human cell, tissue, or organ obtained from the biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-43.

Item 45. The genetically reprogrammed, biologically active and metabolically active non-human cell, tissue, or organ of item 44, wherein the genetically reprogrammed, biologically active and metabolically active non-human cell is a stem cell, an embryonic stem cell, a pluripotent stem cell, or a differentiated stem cell.

Item 46. The genetically reprogrammed, biologically active and metabolically active non-human cell, tissue, or organ of item 45, wherein the stem cell is a hematopoietic stem cell.

Item 47. The genetically reprogrammed, biologically active and metabolically active non-human cell, tissue, or organ of item 44, wherein the genetically reprogrammed, biologically active and metabolically active non-human tissue is a nerve, cartilage, or skin.

Item 48. The genetically reprogrammed, biologically active and metabolically active non-human cell, tissue, or organ of item 44, wherein the genetically reprogrammed, biologically active and metabolically active non-human organ is a solid organ.

Item 49. A method of preparing a genetically reprogrammed swine comprising a nuclear genome that lacks functional expression of surface glycan epitopes selected from alpha-Gal, Neu5Gc, and SDa and is genetically reprogrammed to express a humanized phenotype of a human captured reference sequence comprising:

-   -   a. obtaining a porcine fetal fibroblast cell, a porcine zygote,         a porcine Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (IPSC), or a porcine         germ-line cell;     -   b. genetically altering said cell in a) to lack functional         alpha-1,3 galactosyltransferase, cytidine         monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase (CMAH), and         β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase;     -   c. genetically reprogramming said cell in b) using clustered         regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas for         site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon         regions of: i) at least one of the wild-type swine's SLA-1,         SLA-2, and SLA-3 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon         region of HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C, respectively, of the human         captured reference sequence; and ii) at least one the wild-type         swine's SLA-6, SLA-7, and SLA-8 with nucleotides from an         orthologous exon region of HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G,         respectively, of the human captured reference sequence; and iii)         at least one of the wild-type swine's SLA-DR and SLA-DQ with         nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of HLA-DR and         HLA-DQ, respectively, of the human captured reference sequence,         wherein intron regions of the wild-type swine's genome are not         reprogrammed, and

wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises at least one of A-C:

A) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's β2-microglobulin with nucleotides from orthologous exons of a known human β2-microglobulin from the human captured reference sequence; B) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome comprises a polynucleotide that encodes a polypeptide that is a humanized beta 2 microglobulin (hB2M) polypeptide sequence that is at least 95% identical to beta 2 microglobulin expressed by the human captured reference genome; C) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome has been reprogrammed such that the genetically reprogrammed swine lacks functional expression of the wild-type swine's endogenous β2-microglobulin polypeptides, wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome has been reprogrammed such that, at the swine's endogenous β2-microglobulin locus, the nuclear genome has been reprogrammed to comprise a nucleotide sequence encoding β2-microglobulin polypeptide of the human recipient,

wherein said reprogramming does not introduce any frameshifts or frame disruptions,

-   -   d. generating an embryo from the genetically reprogrammed cell         in c); and     -   e. transferring the embryo into a surrogate pig and growing the         transferred embryo in the surrogate pig.

Item 50. The method of item 49, wherein step (a) further comprises replacing a plurality of nucleotides in a plurality of exon regions of a major histocompatibility complex of a wild-type swine with nucleotides from orthologous exon regions of a major histocompatibility complex sequence from the human captured reference sequence, wherein said replacing does not introduce any frameshifts or frame disruptions.

Item 51. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-50, wherein said replacing comprises performing site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at the major histocompatibility complex of the wild-type swine with orthologous nucleotides from the known human major histocompatibility complex sequence.

Item 52. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-51, wherein the human captured reference sequence is a human patient capture sequence, a human population-specific human capture sequence, or an allele-group-specific human capture sequence.

Item 53. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-52, wherein the orthologous exon regions are at one or more polymorphic glycoproteins of the wild-type swine's major histocompatibility complex.

Item 54. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-53, further comprising: impregnating the surrogate pig with the embryo, gestating the embryo, and delivering a piglet from the surrogate pig through Cesarean section, confirming that said piglet is free of at least the following zoonotic pathogens:

(i) Ascaris species, cryptosporidium species, Echinococcus, Strongyloids sterocolis, and Toxoplasma gondii in fecal matter;

(ii) Leptospira species, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), pseudorabies, transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGE)/Porcine Respiratory Coronavirus, and Toxoplasma Gondii by determining antibody titers;

(iii) Porcine Influenza;

(iv) the following bacterial pathogens as determined by bacterial culture: Bordetella bronchisceptica, Coagulase-positive staphylococci, Coagulase-negative staphylococci, Livestock-associated methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA MRSA), Microphyton and Trichophyton spp.; (v) Porcine cytomegalovirus; and (vi) Brucella suis; and maintaining the piglet according to a bioburden-reducing procedure, said procedure comprising maintaining the piglet in an isolated closed herd, wherein all other animals in the isolated closed herd are confirmed to be free of said zoonotic pathogens, wherein the piglet is isolated from contact with any non-human animals and animal housing facilities outside of the isolated closed herd.

Item 55. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-54, wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at SLA-MIC-2 gene and at exon regions encoding SLA-3, SLA-6, SLA-7, SLA-8, SLA-DQ, CTLA-4, PD-L1, EPCR, TBM, TFPI, and beta-2-microglobulin using the human capture reference sequence, wherein the human cell, tissue, or organ lacks functional expression of swine beta-2-microglobulin, SLA-DR, SLA-1, and SLA-2.

Item 56. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-55, wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at one or more of a CTLA-4 promoter and a PD-L1 promoter, wherein the one or more of the CTLA-4 promoter and the PD-L1 promoter are reprogrammed to increase expression of one or both of reprogrammed CTLA-4 and reprogrammed PD-L1 compared to the wild-type swine's endogenous expression of CTLA-4 and PD-L1.

Item 57. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-56, wherein a total number of the synthesized nucleotides is equal to a total number of the replaced nucleotides, such that there is no net loss or net gain in number of nucleotides after reprogramming the genome of the wild-type swine with the synthesized nucleotides.

Item 58. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-57, wherein the reprogramming with the plurality of synthesized nucleotides do not include replacement of nucleotides in codon regions that encode amino acids that are conserved between the wild-type swine MHC sequence and the human captured reference sequence Item 59. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-58, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at the major histocompatibility complex of the wild-type swine with orthologous nucleotides from the human captured reference sequence.

Item 60. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-59, wherein site-directed mutagenic substitutions are made in germ-line cells used to produce the non-human animal.

Item 61. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-60, wherein the human captured reference sequence is a human patient capture sequence, a human population-specific human capture sequence, or an allele-group-specific human capture sequence.

Item 62. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-61, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-1 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-A captured reference sequence.

Item 63. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-62, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-2 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-B captured reference sequence.

Item 64. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-63, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-3 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-C captured reference sequence.

Item 65. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-64, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-6 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-E captured reference sequence.

Item 66. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-65, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-7 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-F captured reference sequence.

Item 67. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-66, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-8 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-G captured reference sequence.

Item 68. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-67, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's MHC class I chain-related 2 (MIC-2).

Item 69. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-68, wherein the reprogrammed genome lacks functional expression of SLA-1, SLA-2, SLA-DR, or a combination thereof.

Item 70. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-69, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-DQA from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-DQA1 captured reference sequence.

Item 71. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-70, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-DQB from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-DQB1 captured reference sequence.

Item 72. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-71, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-DRA and SLA-DRB1 with nucleotides from orthologous exon regions of HLA-DRA1 and HLA-DRB1 of the human captured reference sequence.

Item 73. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-72, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-DQA and SLA-DQB1 with nucleotides from orthologous exon regions of HLA-DQA1 and HLA-DQB1 of the human captured reference sequence.

Item 74. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-73, wherein the site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides are at codons that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's nuclear genome and the known human sequence.

Item 75. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-74, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's B2-microglobulin with nucleotides from orthologous exons of a known human B2-microglobulin.

Item 76. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-75, wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome comprises a polynucleotide that encodes a polypeptide that is a humanized beta 2 microglobulin (hB2M) polypeptide sequence that is at least 95% identical to the amino acid sequence of beta 2 microglobulin glycoprotein expressed by the human captured reference genome;

Item 77. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-76, wherein said nuclear genome has been reprogrammed such that the genetically reprogrammed swine lacks functional expression of the wild-type swine's endogenous β2-microglobulin polypeptides.

Item 78. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-77, wherein said nuclear genome has been reprogrammed such that, at the swine's endogenous β2-microglobulin locus, the nuclear genome has been reprogrammed to comprise a nucleotide sequence encoding β2-microglobulin polypeptide of the human captured reference sequence.

Item 79. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-78, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of SLA-3, SLA-6, SLA-7, SLA-8, and MIC-2.

Item 80. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-79, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of SLA-DQ, and MIC-2.

Item 81. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-80, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at SLA-3, SLA-6, SLA-7, SLA-8, SLA-DQ, and MIC-2.

Item 82. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-81, wherein the reprogrammed genome lacks functional expression of SLA-DR, SLA-1, and/or SLA-2.

Item 83. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-82, wherein the nuclear genome is reprogrammed using scarless exchange of the exon regions, wherein there are no frameshifts, insertion mutations, deletion mutations, missense mutations, and nonsense mutations.

Item 84. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-83, wherein the nuclear genome is reprogrammed without introduction of any net insertions, deletions, truncations, or other genetic alterations that would cause a disruption of protein expression via frame shift, nonsense, or missense mutations.

Item 85. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-84, wherein nucleotides in intron regions of the nuclear genome are not altered.

Item 86. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-85, wherein said nuclear genome is reprogrammed to be homozygous at the reprogrammed exon regions.

Item 87. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-86, wherein said nuclear genome is reprogrammed such that extracellular, phenotypic surface expression of polypeptide is tolerogenic in a human recipient.

Item 88. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-87, wherein said nuclear genome is reprogrammed such that expression of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) is increased by reprogramming a CTLA-4 promoter sequence.

Item 89. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-88, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type CTLA-4 with nucleotides from orthologous exons of a human captured reference sequence CTLA-4.

Item 90. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-89, wherein the reprogrammed nuclear genome comprises a polynucleotide that encodes a protein that is a humanized CTLA-4 polypeptide sequence that is at least 95% identical to CTLA-4 expressed by the human captured reference genome.

Item 91. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-90, wherein said nuclear genome is reprogrammed such that expression of Programmed death-ligand 1(PD-L1) is increased by reprogramming a PD-L1 promoter sequence.

Item 92. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-91, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type PD-L1 with nucleotides from orthologous exons of a known human PD-L1.

Item 93. The method of any one of or combination of items 49-92, wherein the reprogrammed nuclear genome comprises a polynucleotide that encodes a protein that is a humanized PD-L1polypeptide sequence that is at least 95% identical to PD-L1 expressed by the human captured reference genome.

Item 94. A method of inducing at least partial immunological tolerance in a recipient human to a xenotransplanted cell, tissue, or organ, the method comprising:

producing or obtaining non-human cell, tissue, or organ obtained from the biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-48, wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at SLA-MIC-2 gene and at exon regions of one or more encoding the wild-type swine's MHC Class Ia, MHC class Ib, MHC Class II, and beta-2-microglobulin using the human capture reference sequence and wherein the human cell, tissue, or organ lacks functional expression of swine beta-2-microglobulin; and implanting the non-human cell, tissue, or organ into the recipient human.

Item 95. A method of reducing Natural Killer cell-mediated rejection of a xenograft comprising: producing or obtaining non-human cell, tissue, or organ obtained from the biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-48, wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at SLA-MIC-2 gene and at exon regions encoding one or more of the wild-type swine's MHC Class Ia, MHC class Ib, MHC Class II, and beta-2-microglobulin using the human capture reference sequence and wherein the human cell, tissue, or organ lacks functional expression of swine beta-2-microglobulin, and wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at exon regions encoding one or more of the wild-type swine's CTLA-4 and PD-L1; and implanting the non-human cell, tissue, or organ into the recipient human.

Item 96. A method of reducing Cytotoxic T-cell Lymphocyte cell-mediated rejection of a xenograft comprising:

producing or obtaining non-human cell, tissue, or organ obtained from the biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-48, wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at SLA-MIC-2 gene and at exon regions encoding one or more of the wild-type swine's MHC Class Ia, MHC class Ib, MHC Class II, and beta-2-microglobulin using the human capture reference sequence and wherein the human cell, tissue, or organ lacks functional expression of swine beta-2-microglobulin, and wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at exon regions encoding one or more of the wild-type swine's CTLA-4 and PD-L1; and

implanting the non-human cell, tissue, or organ into the recipient human.

Item 97. A method of preventing or reducing coagulation and/or thrombotic ischemia in a recipient human to a xenotransplanted cell, tissue, or organ, the method comprising: producing or obtaining non-human cell, tissue, or organ obtained from the biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-48, wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at SLA-MIC-2 gene and at exon regions encoding one or more of the wild-type swine's MHC Class Ia, MHC class Ib, MHC Class II, and beta-2-microglobulin using the human capture reference sequence, wherein the human cell, tissue, or organ lacks functional expression of swine beta-2-microglobulin, and wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at exon regions encoding one or more of the wild-type swine's endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR), thrombomodulin (TBM), and tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI); and

implanting the non-human cell, tissue, or organ into the recipient human.

Item 98. A method of reducing MHC Class Ia-mediated rejection of a xenograft comprising:

producing or obtaining non-human cell, tissue, or organ obtained from the biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-48, wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at SLA-MIC-2 gene and at exon regions encoding SLA-3 and one or more of the wild-type swine's MHC class Ib, MHC Class II, and beta-2-microglobulin using the human capture reference sequence, wherein the human cell, tissue, or organ lacks functional expression of swine beta-2-microglobulin, SLA-1, and SLA-2; and implanting the non-human cell, tissue, or organ into the recipient human.

Item 99. A method of reducing MHC Class Ib-mediated rejection of a xenograft comprising:

producing or obtaining non-human cell, tissue, or organ obtained from the biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-48, wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at SLA-MIC-2 gene and at exon regions encoding SLA-6, SLA-7, and SLA-8, and one or more of the wild-type swine's MHC class Ia, MHC Class II, and beta-2-microglobulin using the human capture reference sequence, wherein the human cell, tissue, or organ lacks functional expression of swine beta-2-microglobulin; and implanting the non-human cell, tissue, or organ into the recipient human.

Item 100. A method of reducing MHC Class II-mediated rejection of a xenograft comprising:

producing or obtaining non-human cell, tissue, or organ obtained from the biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-48, wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at SLA-MIC-2 gene and at exon regions encoding at least one of SLA-DR and SLA-DQ, and one or more of the wild-type swine's MHC class Ia, MHC Class Ib, and beta-2-microglobulin using the human capture reference sequence, wherein the human cell, tissue, or organ lacks functional expression of swine beta-2-microglobulin; and implanting the non-human cell, tissue, or organ into the recipient human.

Item 101. A method of inhibiting apoptotic cell-mediated rejection of a xenograft comprising:

producing or obtaining non-human cell, tissue, or organ obtained from the biological system of any one of or combination of items 1-48, wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at SLA-MIC-2 gene and at exon regions encoding one or more of the wild-type swine's MHC Class Ia, MHC class Ib, MHC Class II, and beta-2-microglobulin using the human capture reference sequence and wherein the human cell, tissue, or organ lacks functional expression of swine beta-2-microglobulin, and wherein the wild-type swine genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at exon regions encoding one or more of the wild-type swine's CTLA-4 and PD-L1; and

implanting the non-human cell, tissue, or organ into the recipient human.

Item 102. A method of producing a donor swine tissue or organ for xenotransplantation, wherein cells of said donor swine tissue or organ are genetically reprogrammed to be characterized by a recipient-specific surface phenotype comprising:

obtaining a biological sample containing DNA from a prospective human transplant recipient; performing whole genome sequencing of the biological sample to obtain a human capture reference sequence;

comparing the human capture reference sequence with the wild-type genome of the donor swine at loci (i)-(v):

(i) exon regions encoding at least one of SLA-1, SLA-2, and SLA-3;

(ii) exon regions encoding at least one of SLA-6, SLA-7, and SLA-8; (iii) exon regions encoding at least one of SLA-DR and SLA-DQ;

(iv) one or more exons encoding beta 2 microglobulin (B2M);

(v) exon regions of SLA-MIC-2 gene and a gene encoding at least one of PD-L1, CTLA-4, EPCR, TBM, and TFPI,

creating synthetic donor swine nucleotide sequences of 10 to 350 basepairs in length for one or more of said loci (i)-(v), wherein said synthetic donor swine nucleotide sequences are at least 95% identical to the human capture reference sequence at orthologous loci (vi)-(x) corresponding to swine loci (i)-(vi), respectively: (vi) exon regions encoding at least one of HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C; (vii) exon regions encoding at least one of HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G; (viii) exon regions encoding at least one of HLA-DR and HLA-DQ; (ix) one or more exons encoding human beta 2 microglobulin (hB2M); (x) exon regions encoding at least one of MIC-A, MIC-B, PD-L1, CTLA-4, EPCR, TBM, and TFPI from the human capture reference sequence, replacing nucleotide sequences in (i)-(v) with said synthetic donor swine nucleotide sequences; and obtaining the swine tissue or organ for xenotransplantation from a genetically reprogrammed swine having said synthetic donor swine nucleotide sequences.

Item 103. The method of item 102, further comprising confirming that the genetically reprogrammed swine having said synthetic donor swine nucleotide sequences is free of at least the following zoonotic pathogens:

(i) Ascaris species, cryptosporidium species, Echinococcus, Strongyloids sterocolis, and Toxoplasma gondii in fecal matter;

(ii) Leptospira species, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), pseudorabies, transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGE)/Porcine Respiratory Coronavirus, and Toxoplasma Gondii by determining antibody titers;

(iii) Porcine Influenza;

(iv) the following bacterial pathogens as determined by bacterial culture: Bordetella bronchisceptica, Coagulase-positive staphylococci, Coagulase-negative staphylococci, Livestock-associated methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA MRSA), Microphyton and Trichophyton spp.; (v) Porcine cytomegalovirus; and (vi) Brucella suis.

Item 104. The method of any one of or combination of items 102-103, further comprising maintaining the genetically reprogrammed swine according to a bioburden-reducing procedure, said procedure comprising maintaining the genetically reprogrammed swine in an isolated closed herd, wherein all other animals in the isolated closed herd are confirmed to be free of said zoonotic pathogens, wherein the genetically reprogrammed swine is isolated from contact with any non-human animals and animal housing facilities outside of the isolated closed herd.

Item 105. The method of any one of or combination of items 102-104, further comprising harvesting a biological product from said swine, wherein said harvesting comprises euthanizing the swine and aseptically removing the biological product from the swine.

Item 106. The method of any one of or combination of items 102-105, further comprising processing said biological product comprising sterilization after harvesting using a sterilization process that does not reduce cell viability to less than 50% cell viability as determined by a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT)-reduction assay.

Item 107. The method of any one of or combination of items 102-106, further comprising storing said biological product in a sterile container under storage conditions that preserve cell viability.

Item 108. A method of screening for off target edits or genome alterations in the genetically reprogrammed swine comprising a nuclear genome of any one of or combination of items 1-49, comprising:

performing whole genome sequencing on a biological sample containing DNA from a donor swine before performing genetic reprogramming of the donor swine nuclear genome, thereby obtaining a first whole genome sequence;

after reprogramming of the donor swine nuclear genome, performing whole genome sequencing to obtain a second whole genome sequence;

aligning the first whole genome sequence and the second whole genome sequence to obtain a sequence alignment;

analyzing the sequence alignment to identify any mismatches to the swine's genome at off-target sites.

Item 109. A synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine MHC Class Ia, and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's SLA-3 with codons of HLA-C from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the SLA-3 and the HLA-C from the human capture reference sequence.

Item 110. The synthetic nucleotide sequence of item 109, wherein the wild-type swine's SLA-1 and SLA-2 each comprise a stop codon.

Item 111. A synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine MHC Class Ib, and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's SLA-6, SLA-7, and SLA-8 with codons of HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G, respectively, from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the SLA-6, SLA-7, and SLA-8 and the HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G, respectively, from the human capture reference sequence.

Item 112. A synthetic nucleotide sequence having the synthetic nucleotide sequences of both items 109 and 111 or both items 110 and 111.

Item 113. A synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine MHC Class II, and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's SLA-DQ with codons of HLA-DQ, respectively, from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the SLA-DQ and the HLA-DQ, respectively, from the human capture reference sequence, and wherein the wild-type swine's SLA-DR comprises a stop codon.

Item 114. A synthetic nucleotide sequence having the synthetic nucleotide sequences of: both items 109 and 113; both items 110 and 113; or both items 112 and 113.

Item 115. A synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine beta-2-microglobulin and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's beta-2-microglobulin with codons of beta-2-microglobulin from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's beta-2-microglobulin and the beta-2-microglobulin from the human capture reference sequence, wherein the synthetic nucleotide sequence comprises at least one stop codon in an exon region such that the synthetic nucleotide sequence lacks functional expression of the wild-type swine's β2-microglobulin polypeptides.

Item 116. A synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine MIC-2, and reprogrammed at exon regions of the wild-type swine's MIC-2 with codons of MIC-A or MIC-B from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the MIC-2 and the MIC-A or the MIC-B from the human capture reference sequence.

Item 117. A synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine CTLA-4, and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's CTLA-4 with codons of CTLA-4 from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's CTLA-4 and the CTLA-4 from the human capture reference sequence.

Item 118. A synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine PD-L1 and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's PD-L1 with codons of PD-L1 from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's PD-L1 and the PD-L1 from the human capture reference sequence.

Item 119. A synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine EPCR and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's EPCR with codons of EPCR from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's EPCR and the EPCR from the human capture reference sequence.

Item 120. A synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine TBM and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's TBM with codons of TBM from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's TBM and the TBM from the human capture reference sequence.

Item 121. A synthetic nucleotide sequence having wild-type swine intron regions from a wild-type swine TFPI and reprogrammed at exon regions encoding the wild-type swine's TFPI with codons of TFPI from a human capture reference sequence that encode amino acids that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's TFPI and the TFPI from the human capture reference sequence.

The present invention is described in further detail in the following examples which are provided to be illustrative only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

Example 1 DPF Closed Colony Skin Graft (Monkey Studies)

It has been discovered that skin grafts derived from a DPF Closed Colony, α-1,3-galactosyltransferase [Gal-T] knockout pigs produced in accordance with the present invention exhibit significantly longer rejection times than skin grafts derived from α-1,3-galactosyltransferase [Gal-T] knockout pigs but that were not derived from DPF Closed Colony pigs.

Numerous prior studies evaluating rejection time of α-1,3-galactosyltransferase [Gal-T] knockout pigs (not derived from a DPF Closed Colony) on monkeys show rejection times in the range of 11-13 days. See, e.g., Albritton et al., Lack of Cross-Sensitization Between alpha-1,3-Galactosyltransferase Knockout Porcine and Allogeneic Skin Grafts Permits Serial Grafting, Transplantation & Volume 97, Number 12, Jun. 27, 2014, (Gal-T-KO skin grafts on recipient baboons fully rejected by 12 or 13 days); Barone et al., “Genetically modified porcine split-thickness skin grafts as an alternative to allograft for provision of temporary wound coverage: preliminary characterization,” Burns 41 (2015) 565-574 (Gal-T-KO skin grafts on recipient baboons fully rejected by 11 days); and Weiner et al., Prolonged survival of Gal-T-KO swine skin on baboons, Xenotransplantation, 2010, 17(2): 147-152 (Gal-T-KO xenogeneic split-thickness skin grafts on baboons fully rejected by 11 days).

The subject invention has been shown in nonclinical studies to perform on par and surprisingly better than its allograft comparators, without the inherent disadvantage of inconsistent quality and unreliable and limited availability. That is, surprisingly, at least Study No. 1 shows skin grafts derived from a DPF Closed Colony, α-1,3-galactosyltransferase [Gal-T] knockout pigs produced in accordance with the present invention performed better than allograft.

Two recent studies (Study No. 1 and Study No. 2 set out below) by applicant demonstrate that skin grafts derived from DPF Closed Colony, α-1,3-galactosyltransferase [Gal-T] knockout pigs produced in accordance with the present invention on monkeys show significantly higher rejection times, in Study 2 longer than 30 days. The genetically engineered source animals in this example did not contain any foreign, introduced DNA into the genome; the gene modification employed was exclusively a knock-out of a single gene that was responsible for encoding for an enzyme that causes ubiquitous expression of a cell-surface antigen. The xenotransplantation product in this example does not incorporate transgene technologies, such as CD-46 or CD-55 transgenic constructs.

Study No. 1

This study evaluated DPF Closed Colony, α-1,3-galactosyltransferase [Gal-T] knockout porcine xenotransplantation product material compared to allografts as temporary wound grafts prior to autograft placement in cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) in an experimental model of full thickness skin lesions.

Primary end points included screening for porcine endogenous retrovirus (PERV) in the grafts and the recipient as well as evaluation of the xenotransplantation product and allograft rejection and their potential effects on ultimate autograft take. Secondary end points included microbiologic and histopathologic analysis of kidney, spleen, liver, lung, grafts, and wound bed tissues collected at necropsy.

Four (4) cynomolgus monkeys were enrolled in this study. Four (4), full thickness wound beds measuring approximately 2-3 cm×2-3 cm were created on the dorsal region of each animal on Day 0.

Initially, wounds were treated with either Xenogeneic skin (xenotransplantation product), a split-thickness Gal-T-transgenic porcine xenotransplantation product material, or Allogenic skin (allograft), a split-thickness allograft material, on Day 0.

On Day 15 of the study, the xenotransplantation product and allografts were removed and replaced with split-thickness autologous skin grafts (autografts), after which the animals were survived to Day 22 of study (with the exception of moribund sacrifice Animals 1001 and 1004).

Microscopic evaluation of full thickness wound beds in a cynomolgus monkey model treated with xenotransplantation product or allograft and removed on Day 12 or 15 (FIG. 40A) and survived up to Day 22 (FIG. 40B) demonstrated no evidence of acute tissue rejection with either the xenotransplantation product or allograft comparable to slightly better performance overall with the xenotransplantation product test article when compared to the allograft test article, and average to good autograft performance following pretreatment with either xenotransplantation product or allograft test articles. The significant survival times of the xenotransplantation product prompted a follow-on study (Study No. 2).

Study No. 2

The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of DPF Closed Colony, α-1,3-galactosyltransferase [Gal-T] knockout porcine xenotransplantation product material in cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis).

Primary end points included screening for porcine endogenous retrovirus (PERV) pre- and post-graft placement and evaluation of the xenotransplantation product rejection.

Four (4) cynomolgus monkeys were enrolled in this study. Two (2) 9 cm² full thickness wound beds were created on the dorsal region of each animal created on Day 0.

Wounds were treated with split-thickness Gal-T-knockout porcine xenograft material consisting of dermal and epidermal tissue layers.

FIG. 41 shows the longitudinal progression of porcine split-thickness skin graft used as a temporary wound closure in treatment of full-thickness wound defects in a non-human primate recipient. Left: POD-0, xenograft at Wound Site 2. Right: POD-30, same xenograft at Wound Site 2. FIG. 42 shows POD-30 histological images for: Top, Center: H&E, Low power image of wound site depicts complete epithelial coverage. Dotted line surrounds the residual xenograft tissue. Bottom, Left: H&E, Higher power image of the large inset box. To the right and below the dotted line is the dermal component of the xenograft, with the xenograft dermal matrix indicated by an open arrow. To the left of the dotted line is the host dermis (black arrow) and the host dermal matrix. Mild inflammation is present and interpreted to be in response to the xenograft test article. Bottom, Right: H&E, higher power image of the small inset box. The dotted line roughly demonstrates the junction between the xenograft test article (below dotted line) and new collagen tissue (above dotted line), with intact epithelium at the top of the image. Mild inflammation in response to the xenograft (open arrows) is observed.

FIG. 43A graphs the total serum IgM ELISA (μg/mL) for all four subjects (2001, 2002, 2101, 2102) during the course of the study. FIG. 43B graphs the total serum IgG ELISA (μg/mL) for all four subjects (2001, 2002, 2101, 2102) during the course of the study. In some aspects, subjects transplanted with the product of the present disclosure will have serum IgM and IgG levels of less than 20,000 μg/ml each. In some aspects, subjects transplanted with the product of the present disclosure will have serum IgM and/or IgG levels below or less than 10%, 5%, 3%, or 1% higher than serum IgM and IgG levels measured prior to transplantation. In some aspects, the claimed method may demonstrate an immunoreactivity incidence rate of less than 5%, 3%, or 1% of subjects transplanted with the product of the present disclosure.

FIG. 44A graphs systemic concentrations of soluble CD40L as measured by Luminex 23-plex at POD-0, POD-7, POD-14, POD-21, and POD-30. FIG. 44B graphs systemic concentrations of TGF-alpha as measured by Luminex 23-plex at POD-0, POD-7, POD-14, POD-21, and POD-30. FIG. 44C graphs systemic concentrations of IL-12/23 (p40) as measured by Luminex 23-plex at POD-0, POD-7, POD-14, POD-21, and POD-30.

Animals were terminated at 30 or 31 Days, wound sites were collected and fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin (NBF) or Modified Davidson's Solution for the testis and epididymis. It should be noted that while the animals were terminated at 30 or 31 days due to the study design and for comparison purposes, the xenotransplantation product of the present disclosure is capable of resisting rejection for longer than the study period used in this example.

Microscopic evaluation of full thickness wound beds in a cynomolgus monkey model treated with xenograft and terminated on Day 30 or 31 demonstrated good filling of the wound defect with host and xenograft tissue.

Screening for porcine endogenous retroviruses (PERV) and porcine cytomegalovirus (PCMV) was performed separately at specified post-operative intervals via specialized (porcine specific) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) testing of samples. The porcine xenografts, lysed PBMCS of the recipient, recipient wound bed, and highly perfused organs from the recipients at necropsy were evaluated for presence of porcine cell migration. All tests were performed in triplicate with internal controls for DNA and RNA, as well as assay performance. Microbiologic (bacterial, fungal, viral) assays and histopathologic analysis of kidney, spleen, liver, lung, xenografts, allografts, wound bed tissues collected at necropsy, and analysis of peripheral blood were performed to test for xenograft-related immunogenic biomarkers. DNA PCR was performed to test for porcine cell migration in PBMCs from the cynomolgus monkey model treated with the product of the present disclosure for the following samples: (A) (3) full-thickness (xenograft) wound beds, (B) (3) full-thickness (allograft) wound beds; (C) (2) spleen samples; and (D)(2) kidney samples. There was no evidence of cell migration or zoonotic transmission systemically to the host. The presence of PERV is attributed to the residual pig cells in the wound bed, as verified with porcine MHC controls. Our results suggest that porcine DNA and cells did not migrate into the circulation of the graft recipients from the grafts, and likewise PERV or PERV-infected porcine cells did not migrate past the wound bed.

The following Table 4 shows the analysis for porcine cell migration and transmission:

TABLE 4 Item PSKl7-01 MHC CCR5 No. Sample Analysis PCMV PERV (swine) (Control) PBMC @ End-of-Study Subject # (EoS Date) 1 NHP-1001 (POD-I S) * * * * 2 NHP-1002 (POD-22) Neg (−) Neg (−) Neg (−) Pos (+) 3 NHP-1003 (POD-22) Neg (−) Neg (−) Neg (−) Pos (+) 4 NHP-1004 (POD-12) Neg (−) Neg (−) Neg (−) Pos (+) Wound Bed @ End-of- Study Subject # (Test Article) (EoS Date) 5 NHP-1001 (Xenograft) * * * * (POD-IS) 6 NHP-1001 (Allograft) * * * * (POD-I S) 7 NHP-1002 (Xenograft) Neg (−) Neg (−) Neg (−) Pos (+) (POD-22) 8 NHP-1002 (Allograft) Neg (−) Neg (−) Neg (−) Pos (+) (POD-22) 9 NHP-1003 (Xenograft) Neg (−) Neg (−) Neg (−) Pos (+) (POD-22) 10 NHP-1003 (Allograft) Neg (−) Neg (−) Neg (−) Pos (+) (POD-22) 11 NHP-1004 (Xenograft) Neg (−) Pos (+)^((A)) Neg (−) Pos ( +) (POD-12) 12 NHP-1004 (Allograft) Neg (−) Neg (−) Neg (−) Pos (+) (POD-12) Spleen @ End-of-Study 13 NHP-1001 Neg (−) Neg (−) Neg (−) Pos (+) 14 NHP-1004 Neg (−) Neg (−) Neg (−) Pos (+) Kidney @ End-of-Study 15 NHP-1001 Neg (−) Neg (−) Neg (−) Pos (+) 16 NHP-1004 Neg (−) Neg (−) Neg (−) Pos (+) Key for Table 4: Neg (−) = Negative Pos (+) = Positive *= Test Not Performed or Sample Not Acceptable, due to unrelated, study design-related logistical or preservation issue Pos (+)^(A) The wound bed for NHP 1004 (PERV positive) underwent co-culture studies to ascertain whether the detected virus present at the interface between graft and recipient (host) could infect permissive human cells. Co-culture of the xenograft and recipient wound bed cells with permissive human cells for PERV infection and replication did not demonstrate productive infection in the target cells (HEK293), after a 23-day culture. Co-culture of the xenograft and recipient wound bed cells with permissive human cells for PERV infection and replication did not demonstrate productive infection in the target cells (HEK293), after a 23-day culture.

TABLE 5 Banff Grades and Pathologic Component Scores¹ of Skin Xenotransplantsat POD-30 Surgeon Banff Animal Graft assessment Grade pc² pa³ ei⁴ e⁵ v6 c⁷ cav⁸ 2001 1 100% re-epithelialized III 3 3 3 1 0 1 0 2001 2 100% re-epithelialized III-IV 3 3 3 2 0 1 0 2002 1  30% re-epithelialized III-IV 3 3 3 3 0 0 0 2002 2  30% re-epithelialized III-IV 3 3 3 3 0 0 0 2101 1  40% re-epithelialized II 3 3 2 3 0 0 0 2101 2  40% re-epithelialized III-IV 3 3 3 2 0 0 0 2102 1  20% re-epithelialized III-IV 3 3 3 3 0 0 0 2102 2  20% re-epithelialized II-III 3 3 3 3 0 0 0 ¹Pathologic Component Scores developed by Rosales, et al. 47 ²pc = perivascular cells − number of cells surrounding dermal vessels (venules, capillaries, and arterioles) in deep and superficial dermis; scored on the most involved vessels; pc3 >50 cells/vessel ³pa = perivascular dermal infiltrate area − percent area occupied by the most involved dermal vessels at 40× magnification; pa3 >75% ⁴ei = epidermal infiltrate − total number of mononuclear cells per four 20× fields; ei3 = transepidermal infiltrate, ei2 >20 cells ⁵e = epidermal injury and necrosis − presence of keratinocyte apoptosis and necrosis; e3 = sloughed, e2 = focal necrosis, e1 = apoptosis ⁶v = endarteritis − mononuclear cells underneath arterial endothelium; scored on the most involved artery; v0 = none ⁷c = capillaritis − maximum number of cells per capillary cross section; scored on most involved capillaries; c1 = 2-4/capillary, c0 = 0-1/capillary ⁸cav = chronic allograft vasculopathy − intimal thickening with luminal reduction; scored as percent luminal reduction; cav0 = none

The general appearance for all xenotransplants for the course of the study was pink, warm to the touch and adherent to the wound bed. Epidermolysis (mild to moderate) was first noted by the surgeon on POD-14 but the dermis was adherent. Assessment at POD-21 revealed that the wound bed was re-granulating and there were signs of re-epithelialization, such that by POD-30, 20% to 100% of the wound had been re-epithelialized. (Table 5) During the clinical course of these skin xenotransplants, there was no sloughing of the xenotransplant tissue and exposure of the wound bed.

Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)—prepared sections containing residual skin xenotransplants and the underlying wound beds, obtained at POD-30, were microscopically evaluated by a blinded pathologist.H&E staining showed minimal to moderate inflammatory response. There was ulceration of the epithelia in four out of eight treated sites. The response at the wound sites was characterized by filling of the wound defect with a mature dermal collagen network surrounded by a variable layer of new collagen. This mature collagen network was distinct in appearance from the host dermis bordering the wound site, and was interpreted to be the xenotransplant dermis. The skin xenotransplants were assessed using a systematic pathologic component scoring and Banff classification⁴⁷. The Banff classification is useful in categorizing xenotransplant rejection, and it is complemented by the component score approach, providing a more comprehensive array of clinical thresholds for the diagnosis of rejection. The results of this assessment and Banff Grades for POD-30 are shown in Table 5. The Banff 2007 Working Classification for Composite Tissue Allografts is based on the level of epidermal apoptosis, epidermal infiltrates, and perivascular/dermal infiltrates⁴⁸. The Banff Grades ranged from II (moderate) to IV (necrotizing acute rejection) with most showing Grade III (severe).

TABLE 6 Changes in Serum Cytokines and Chemokines after Xenograft Transplantation (pg/mL) Cytokine/ Chemokine POD-0 POD-7 POD-14 POD-21 POD-30 sCD40L 1900 ± 7900†± 7700†‡ ± 8600†‡ ± 8500†‡ ± 1000 3100 3100 4000 5200 IL-1ra 7.6 ± 50† ± 28† ± 66† ± 24† ± 2.8 44 11 83 13 IL-2 29 ± 42† ± 37† ± 41† ± 30 ± 11 18 11 9 12 IL-6 0.31 ± 7.3† ± 4.1† ± 8.5† ± 3.3† ± 0.6 8.3 2.6 6.3 2.7 IL-8 2500 ± 4200† ± 3700† ± 3900† ± 2500 ± 1300 3200 2600 2300 2100 IL-12/23 (p40) 0.6 ± 1.8 ± 26† ± 16† ± 6.7† ± 1.0 2.7 22 11 7.7 IL-15 3.1 ± 6.0† ± 7.1† ± 5.0† ± 6.0† ± 1.9 2.0 1.3 1.3 1.5 MCP-1 360 ± 710† ± 420† ± 460† ± 310 ± 150 540 110 110 120 TGF-α 4.5 ± 22† ± 16† ± 5.2 ± 9.9 ± 4.6 11 11 3.6 8.9 POD = Postoperative day Values are means (n = 4) ± SD †Significant datapoints (p < 0.05) compared to POD 0, student t-test ‡Values include data at the upper level of detection (12,000 pg/mL)

As an evaluation of cell-mediated immune response, a total of 23 inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines characteristic of initial wound healing processes or those anticipated in an immunological response to xenogeneic cells were measured. Twelve of the 23 cytokines/chemokines assayed were consistently below the level of detection throughout the entire study period: TNF-α, IFN-γ, TGF-β, G-CSF, GM-CSF, IL-1-β, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-13, IL-17, IL-18, and MIP-1-α. VEGF exceeded the level of detection at only three individual timepoints, and levels of MIP-1-beta were discernable only once (data not presented). Nine cytokines/chemokines detected over the period of the study are listed in Table 6. All cytokines/chemokines shown in the table were observed to increase above background at POD-7, the first day of sampling. IL-2, IL-8, MCP-1 and TGF-α peaked at POD-7 and decreased over time. IL-15 and IL-12/23 (p40) peaked at POD-14, while sCD40L, IL-1ra and IL-6 had an elevated peak at POD-21. In general, all of the factors showed a return to normal by POD-30 with the exception of sCD40L, which remained elevated at POD-30. Of interest, levels of IL-12/23 (p40) were nearly absent until conspicuously elevated on POD-14, gradually reducing in concentration over the remainder of the study.

TABLE 7 Post-Transplant Changes in Binding of Recipient Serum IgM and IgG to PBMC¹ Targets from GalT—KO² Swine Donors Pre/Post IgM⁵ IgG⁶ Recipient Transplant³ rMFI⁴ Fold Change rMFI⁴ Fold Change 2001 Pre 8.51 0.0 16.28 0.0 Post 45.72 4.4 1089.85 65.9 2002 Pre 5.07 0.0 28.29 0.0 Post 30.01 4.9 840.64 28.7 2101 Pre 7.92 0.0 16.03 0.0 Post 22.48 1.8 730.83 44.6 2102 Pre 6.47 0.0 5.19 0.0 Post 15.49 1.4 372.88 70.8 ¹PBMC = peripheral blood mononuclear cell ²GalT—KO = alpha-1,3 galactosyltransferase knockout ³Pre-transplant = POD-0; Post-transplant = POD-30 ⁴rMFI = relative Mean Fluorescent Intensity ⁵IgM = immunoglobulin M ⁶IgG = immunoglobulin G

To assess the production of antibody to xenogeneic after skin transplant, binding of recipient serum IgM and IgG to peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) targets from GalT-KO donors was measured by flow cytometry. Serum IgM and IgG antibody levels were analyzed at pre-transplant and at POD-30. In Table 7, the relative mean fluorescent intensity (MFI) and fold increase in binding are summarized for each recipient. An increase in anti-xenogeneic IgM and IgG was detected in all animals. Between pre-transplant (POD-0) and post-transplant (POD-30), IgM anti-porcine antibodies increased between 1.4 to 4.9 fold and IgG anti-porcine antibodies increased between 28.7 to 70.8 fold. These results demonstrate a humoral response to non-Gal xenoantigens.

TABLE 8 Data for Postoperative Analysis of Wound Beds (Wound Site 1 and 2) PERV Animal Wound copies/500 ng Micro- ID Site (SD) chimerism† QC‡ 2001 W1 <LOD† − + W2 1495.6 (±521) + + 2002 W1 1518.8 (±21)  + + W2 <LOD − + 2101 W1  527.1 (±134) + + W2 137.8 (±16) + + 2102 W1 <LOD − + W2 <LOD − + SD = Standard Deviation, LOD = Limit of Detection, QC = Quality Control †Porcine microchimerism cannot be accurately quantified due to mixture of cells present in wound bed extraction ‡All QC gave a positive Ct , indicating no inhibition

Naïve skin xenotransplants were analyzed for PERV copy number and as expected, each cell contained copies of PERV A (32±1), B (9±0.1) and C (16±0.1). Sera from the four recipients were evaluated for the presence of circulating PERV; all samples were found to be negative for PERV pol and below the limit of detection. PBMC samples from each of the four recipients were also tested for PERV and for microchimerism (i.e., the presence of circulating pig cells) and were also found negative, at all time points. Tissues taken at the end of the study (POD-30) were evaluated for PERV expression and again were found negative. Wound beds from animal 2102 were negative for the presence of PERV and for microchimerism. (Table 8) For the other animals, either one wound site or both were positive. This is not surprising due to the direct contact of the wound bed with the xenograft. It is expected that some porcine cells not associated with the graft may have sloughed off or been left behind in the process of removal at the end of the study. This is confirmed by the positive values achieved for the microchimerism assay attributing the PERV signal to porcine cell contamination. Altogether, these results provided no evidence of PERV transmission, consistent with previous studies.

Example 2

The following example provides a description of a process of harvesting and processing skin from a genetically reprogrammed swine produced in accordance with the present invention, with the skin to be used as a xenogeneic skin product for human transplantation. In some of these aspects, the xenotransplantation product consists of split thickness grafts consisting of dermal and epidermal tissue layers containing vital, non-terminally sterilized porcine cells derived from specialized, genetically reprogrammed, Designated Pathogen Free (DPF), source animals.

In one aspect, the genetically reprogrammed source animal is any genetically reprogrammed animal described in the present disclosure. In one non-limiting aspect, the genetically engineered source animals in this example do not contain any foreign, introduced DNA into the genome; the gene modification includes a knock-out of a single gene that was responsible for encoding for an enzyme that causes ubiquitous expression of a cell-surface antigen. The xenotransplantation product in this example does not incorporate transgene technologies, such as CD-46 or CD-55 transgenic constructs.

The process and techniques disclosed herein are but examples, and do not limit the scope of the invention. It will be fully understood that while this example is directed to xenotransplantation skin products, several of the steps in the following process and aspects of the overall approach can be applied to other organs or tissues, including, but not limited to, kidney, lung, liver, pancreas, nerve, heart, intestine, and other organs or tissue. It will be further understood that modifications to the processes and methods disclosed in this example (including additions or omissions of one or more process or method steps) can be made in relation to the harvesting and processing of other organs or tissue besides skin. This understanding is based in part on the fact that other organs and tissue will have different physical characteristics and so harvesting and processing steps for such other organs or tissue will be different from this example in certain practical ways (e.g., a kidney, heart, liver, lung, or other whole organ will not be cut to size and packaged in a cryovial supported by nylon mesh). Nonetheless, it will be further understood that additions or omissions of one or more process or method steps as applied to each such organ or tissue may be made to this example utilizing approaches known in the art (e.g., a harvested kidney, heart, liver, lung, or other whole organ will, in some aspects, be placed in an antipathogen bath or exposed to UV light as described herein for the removal of pathogens following harvest, and placed in one or more closure systems. For example, such one or more closure systems could include, but not be limited to, a first closure system (e.g., utilizing an inert material for initial closure to surround the organ to prevent the organ from coming into contact with or adhering to other materials proximate to the organ) and/or a second closure system (e.g., a sterile and secure outer container that contains the organ and first closure system (if a first closure system is utilized)). Such organs within such closure system(s) are configured to be transported to a clinical site as whole organs, stored, protected and transported in temperatures, sterility, and other conditions to maintain sterility and cell viability for transplantation as described herein at the clinical site.

Animal Preparation

Skin product processing occurs in a single, continuous, and self-contained, segregated manufacturing event that begins with the sacrifice of the source animal through completion of the production of the final product.

Xenogeneic skin grafts derived from the genetically reprogrammed source animal is received, with the swine being recently euthanized via captive bolt euthanasia in another section of the DPF Isolation Area. The source animal is contained in a sterile, non-porous bag that is contained within a plastic container which is delivered into the DPF Isolation Area and placed in an operating room where the procedure to harvest skin from the source animal will occur. All members of the operating team should be in full sterile surgical gear dressed in sterile dress to maintain designated pathogen free conditions prior to receiving the source animal and in some instanced be double-gloved to minimize contamination.

The operating area is prepared with materials required for harvesting skin from the source animal prior to decontamination (e.g., 24 hours prior with chlorine dioxide gas treatment) and prior to the procedure. Dermatome (electronic skin harvesting device, e.g., Amalgatome by Exsurco) power supply, and extension cord are sterilized and placed in the operating area prior to the operation. Any materials not in the room during the chlorine dioxide gas treatment (and therefore non-sterile) will be sprayed with 70% ethanol or isopropanol prior to entering the room.

The source animal is removed from the bag and container in an aseptic fashion, for example, a human lifting the source animal from the bag and container using sterilized gloves and/or sterilized device to aid lifting and minimize contamination. The source animal is scrubbed by operating staff for at least 2 minutes with Chlorhexidine brushes over the entire area of the animal where the operation will occur, periodically pouring Chlorhexidine over the area to ensure coverage.

The source animal is placed on its right lateral flank and dorsum towards the operating table leaving the left lateral flank and dorsum exposed. The exposed surface is scrubbed to the extreme visible surgical borders, and constrained by sterile drapes secured with towel clamps. The source animal is then scrubbed with opened Betadine brushes and sterile water rinse over the entire area of the animal where the operation will occur for approximately 2 minutes.

This Chlorhexidine and Betadine mixture will sit on the source animal for approximately 2 minutes, and staff (dressed in sterile dress to maintain designated pathogen free conditions) will then rinse and dry the source animal with sterile water and sterile gauze. The source animal's hair is removed so as to not impact the membrane or introduce another element that would degrade the cells. Hair removal is done using sterilized clippers and/or straight razor in the designated pathogen free environment immediately post-mortem with a clean blade utilizing a chlorhexidine lather. Staff will use the clippers and/or straight razor (lubricated in a sterile bath) to remove any remaining hair on the operating site, taking care to not puncture the skin. This procedure will be repeated (scrubbing to shaving) by turning the source animal onto the left lateral flank so as to expose the right side. The source animal will be rinsed with sterile water and dried with sterile towels and sprayed with 70% ethanol. The source animal will be inspected visually by the surgeon to ensure proper coverage of scrubbing. After the sterile scrub and final shaving, the source animal is ready for skin harvest.

Skin Harvesting

Operators will be dressed in sterile dress in accordance with program and other standards to maintain designated pathogen free conditions. All tissue from the source animal that will be used for xenotransplantation is harvested within 15 hours of the animal being sacrificed.

In one aspect, the source animal is laid on its side on an operating table. In this aspect, harvesting is done utilizing a dermatome circular blade, (for example and Amalgatome® SD). As the staff secures the animal in place, the surgeon determines the most appropriate width (e.g., 1, 2, 3, or 4 inches) and uses the circular dermatome to remove strips of split thickness skin grafts at a chosen thickness (e.g., 0.50 mm, 0.55 mm, 0.62 mm).

By way of further example, the thickness of the skin grafts could range from 0.01 mm to 4 mm, depending on the therapeutic needs at issue. It will also be understood that in some aspects a full thickness graft may also be utilized harvested with alternative harvesting and grafting procedures known in the art. Graft sizes can range from 1 cm² to 1000 cm² (or approximately 1 ft²). It will be understood that larger graft sizes are also possible depending on the application and harvesting technique utilized and size of the source animal. It will be understood that for all aspects, other depths could be utilized as well, depending on the application and needs of the task at hand for therapeutic and/or other purposes.

In another aspect, skin harvesting involves surgically removing a skin flap from the animal first, then the skin flap is placed dermis-side down onto a harvest board (e.g., a solid board made of metal, plastic or other appropriate material) set upon on the operating table. In this aspect, sterile padding material is added beneath the skin flap and on top of the harvest board, to allow appropriate give for proper dermatome device function. The skin flap is then affixed to the harvest board firmly with steel clamps. Curved towel clamps are utilized on the side of the skin flap opposite the clamps until the skin is firm and taut. The surgeon will choose the most appropriate thickness on the dermatome and adjust per harvest conditions. The surgeon will use the dermatome on the secured skin flap, with an assistant maintaining tension along the dermatome progress. A second assistant may also provide assistance with skin flap tension, and may use rat tooth forceps to pull the graft product emerging from the dermatome.

Grafts are trimmed to desired sizes. By way of example, sizes can be: 5 cm×5 cm, with a total surface area of 25 cm² and uniform thickness of approximately 0.55 mm; 5 cm×15 cm, with a total surface area of 75 cm² and uniform thickness of approximately 0.55 mm; 8 cm×7.5 cm, with a total surface area of 60 cm² and uniform thickness of approximately 0.55 mm; 8 cm×15 cm with a total surface area of 120 cm² and uniform thickness of approximately 0.55 mm. It will be further understood that customizable sizes (i.e., width, thickness and length) can be created depending on patient needs, including larger sheets of skin can be harvested for use in xenotransplantation procedures.

The xenotransplantation product is further processed to be free of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, fungus, and mycoplasma. Under sterile conditions in a laminar flow hood in a drug product processing suite using applicable aseptic techniques, immediately after, within 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 seconds, within 10 seconds to 1 minute, within 1 minute to 1 hour, within 1 hour to 15 hours, or within 15 hours to 24 hours following harvest, the xenotransplantation product is placed into an anti-microbial/anti-fungal bath (“antipathogen bath”). With regard to a skin product, this can occur after the skin product is trimmed to the proper dose size and shape (e.g., trimmed to squares, rectangles, or others shapes of desired size(s))

The antipathogen bath includes ampicillin, ceftazidime, vancomyocin, amphotericin-B placed in a sterile container and the xenotransplantation products are diluted as outlined in the following Table 5 and added to RPMI-1640 medium as outlined in the following Table 6. In one aspect, about 10 mL of medium is removed from the bottle before adding the above items.

TABLE 5 Vial Diluent Approx. Vol Approx. Drug Mg Vol Diluent available concentration Ceftazidime 1000 10.0 mL Sterile water 10.8 mL 100 mg/mL Ampicillin 2000 10.0 mL Sterile water   11 mL 180 mg/mL Vancomycin 500 10.0 mL Sterile water 50 ug/ mL Amphotericin 50  5.0 mL Sterile water  10 mg/mL B

TABLE 6 Volume (mL) Final added to 500 Drug Concentrations mg/500 mL Media mL RPMI 1640 Ceftazidime 500-2500 mg/L 250-1250 mg 2.5-10  Ampicillin 500-2500 mg/L 250-1250 mg 1-6 Vancomycin 25-125 mg/L 10-75 mg  0.25-2   Amphotericin B 40-200 mg/L 20-100 mg  2-10 Total volume added 5.75-28  

It will be understood that while this example is directed to xenotransplantation skin products, other organs, including, but not limited to, kidney, lung, heart, liver, pancreas, and other organs can be bathed in the antipathogen bath in accordance with the present invention. The amounts of combination of drugs and other chemicals, and duration of exposure to such antipathogen bath, are performed to minimize the affect such exposure has on cell viability and mitochondrial activity to achieve both the desired antipathogen result and minimal manipulation of the xenotransplantation products in accordance with the present invention.

As an alternative, or in addition to, removing pathogens via the antipathogen bath, the products are made designated pathogen free by a process and system utilizing ultraviolet light. In this aspect, the operator is dressed in sterile dress in accordance with institutional standards to maintain designated pathogen free conditions. The operator wears eye protection safety glasses for ultraviolet light and lasers.

An ultraviolet laser lamp is set up in a laminar flow hood. Each of the four corners of the lamp is placed on two container lids that are stacked on top of each other, i.e., four pairs of lids are used to support the lamp, or other supporting items, able to position the lamp in a temporary or fixed position above the working surface of the hood. The distance from the lamp bulbs (2 bulb tubes total) to the floor of the hood is approximately 1.5 inches. The entire interior of the hood is sprayed with alcohol, e.g., ethanol or isopropanol. The lamp is turned on and the operator performs a calculation of time for desired exposure based on lamp specifications, number of bulbs, and distance between the bulbs and the xenotransplantation product.

The operator pours two baths (one chlorhexidine and one alcohol) into two separate bowls and places the two bowls under the hood.

A package of new sterilized cryovials is placed under the hood. Cryovial caps are unscrewed and placed into the chlorhexidine bath. Each cryovial (without cap) is then turned upside down and plunged open ended into the chlorhexidine bath, for one minute each and then set upright to air dry. Thereafter, the exterior of each cryovial is wiped with chlorhexidine and alcohol utilizing sterile gauze. The cryovial caps are removed from the chlorhexidine bath and placed on sterile gauze. The open ends of each vial were plunged into alcohol bath for 1 minute each and then set aside to air dry.

Xenotransplantation products recently obtained from the harvest/procurement phase in the surgical room are transferred into the product processing room, via a one-way entrance into the laminar flow hood. Anything entering the sterile field is wiped down with 70% ethanol prior to transfer to the operator. The operator will have access to all required materials in the laminar flow hood: xenotransplantation product (in sterile container), cryovials, 10 mL syringes and needles, phase freezer holding rack, and pre-cut nylon mesh. Only one size of the products is processed at a time to ensure proper control to final vials. The operator is seated at the laminar flow hood in compliance with sterile, aseptic techniques.

When using UV light sterilization, the product is placed under the UV lamp for a desired period of time, e.g., 2 minutes or more, then turned over to the other side, and put under the UV lamp for the same period of time, e.g., 2 minutes or more on opposite side. The time period for exposing a given sample to the UV is varied based on the specific biological agents or the types of biological agents to be sterilized, e.g., as shown in the following Table 7:

TABLE 7 Type of UV-C Dosage Sterilization Biological (uW sec/cm²) time Biological Agent Agent for 90% sterilization (sec)* Penicillium spp. Fungus 224,000 1800 Aspergillus flavus Fungus 34,900 300 Aspergillus niger Fungus 31,500 250 Yeast Fungus 4000 30 Influenza A Virus 1900 15 HIV-1 Virus 28,000 220 Vaccinia Virus 1500 10 Escherichia coli Bacteria 2000 20 Staphylococcus Bacteria 6600 50 aureus Bacillus subtilis Bacteria 6800 50 Mycoplasma spp. Bacteria 8400 70 Pseudomonas Bacteria 2200 20 aeruginosa *Using a UV-C intensity of 125 uW/cm²

With regard to other whole organs, product yield will typically depend on how many of each such whole organ a given source animal may have (e.g., one liver, two lungs, two kidneys, one heart, one pancreas and so forth).

It will also be understood that while this example is directed to xenotransplantation skin products, other organs, including, but not limited to, kidney, heart, lung, liver, pancreas, and other organs can be exposed to ultraviolet light and made designated pathogen free in accordance with the present invention. The UV exposure dosages, intensity, and duration of exposure to such ultraviolet light, are performed to minimize the affect such exposure has on cell viability and mitochondrial activity to achieve both the desired antipathogen result and minimal manipulation of the xenotransplantation products in accordance with the present invention.

Manufacturing Process Generally

Through the continuous manufacturing event, source animals are processed into aseptic xenotransplantation products. Several items are involved in the manufacture of the product relating to the source animals, including, but not limited to:

-   -   a) care and husbandry of the source animals (including, as         described herein, providing certain vaccinations, carefully         maintaining and analyzing pedigree records, performing proper         animal husbandry, and maintaining the animals in isolation         barrier conditions);     -   b) product manufacturing (including, as described herein,         processing the source animals into the subject product from         euthanizing to harvest);     -   c) analytical testing of the source animals (including, as         described herein, screening for adventitious agents including         parasitology, bacteriology, and virology assays);     -   d) analytical testing of the source animals (including, as         described herein, confirming the source animal is an         alpha-1,3-galactotransferase knockout or has other         characteristics that are desired for a given application); and     -   e) analytical testing of the source animals (including, as         described herein, viral assay for Endogenous Viruses (PERV)).

Several items are also involved in the manufacture and release testing of the resulting products, including, but not limited to:

-   -   a) product manufacturing (including, as described herein,         processing the drug product, storing the drug product, and         releasing the drug product);     -   b) analytical testing of the drug product (including, as         described herein, viability testing (via, e.g., MTT assay)),     -   c) sterility testing (including, as described herein, aerobic         bacteria culture, anaerobic bacteria culture, fungal culture,         mycoplasma assay, endotoxin test, USP <71>)),     -   d) adventitious agent testing (including, as described herein,         PCR Assay for e.g., Endogenous Viruses (PERV)); and     -   e) analytical testing of the drug product (including, as         described herein, histology).

For skin, the quantity of product yield from each animal can vary depending on the size of each animal. By way of example, some animals could yield between 3,000 and 6,000 cm² in product. In one aspect, a single batch of skin product is harvested from a single source animal in a continuous process. A batch description of the xenotransplantation product is provided in Table 8 and batch formula for the xenotransplantation product is provided in Table 9.

TABLE 8 Batch Size Product (strength) Lot Size Xenotransplantation product Drug Product, 200 Units (180-220) Dosage Strength 1 (7.5 grams, 25 cm²) (1.5 kgs per lot) (1.35 kg to 1.65 kg) Xenotransplantation product Drug Product, 67 units (60-75) Dosage Strength 2 (22.5 grams, 75 cm²) (1.5 kgs per lot) (1.35 kg to 1.65 kg)

TABLE 9 Batch Formula Nominal Nominal Component Amount per Vial Amount per Lot Xenotransplantation   25 cm²   200 Units product Drug Substance Dosage Strength 1 CryoStor   7 ml  1.4 L Nylon Mesh   60 cm²  1200 cm² Total Batch Size  7.5 grams  1.5 kgs Xenotransplantation   75 cm²   67 Units product Drug Substance Dosage Strength 1 CryoStor   5 ml   350 ml Nylon Mesh  180 cm²  3600 cm² Total Batch Size 22.5 grams  1.5 kgs

Prior lot testing is performed under good laboratory practice (“GLP”) conditions to ensure process sterility is maintained consistently. Assurance of sterility of the final product is determined prior to material release and clinical use. Prior to validation for human clinical use, all xenotransplantation products will meet certain acceptance criteria, including as described herein. The final drug product control strategy and analytical testing is conducted at the conclusion of the manufacturing process prior to release for clinical use. Results of the required analytical tests will be documented via a drug product certificate of analysis (COA) that is maintained with a master batch record pertaining to each lot of xenotransplantation products.

Source animal sample archives are generated and maintained through procurement of tissue samples of lung, liver, spleen, spinal cord, brain, kidney, and skin. These tissues are collected for source animal tissues for testing, archive, and stored for potential future testing. Archived samples of source animal tissue and bodily fluids should be stored at minus (−) 70 degrees Celsius or lower, as appropriate for preserving the sample. In other aspects, fixed samples can be maintained at room temperature. Appropriate tissue samples should be collected for formalin fixation and paraffin-embedding and for cryopreservation from source animals at the time the live cells, tissues, or organs are procured. Cryopreservation should be at least ten 0.5 cc aliquots of citrated- or EDTA-anticoagulated plasma; five aliquots of viable leukocytes (1×107/aliquot, for subsequent isolation of nucleic acids and proteins or for use as a source of viable cells for co-culture or other tissue culture assays.

Product Processing Following Harvesting

The previously harvested and minimally manipulated xenotransplantation skin product (here the skin integrity being minimally manipulated dermal and epidermal tissue layers with standard cellular morphology and organization) enters the separate, adjacent room with positive pressure above that of the surgical suite, designated as the Class 10,000 (ISO-7) product processing room.

The operating room will be setup per operating preparation procedures and the operating personnel will be dressed in Tyvex suits for fume hood work. If requested, an assistant will also be dressed in a Tyvex suit. Gowning and Dressing is done with aseptic techniques. Gloves and sleeves will be sprayed with alcohol if needed. The ABSL-2 laminar flow hood, having been prior sterilized via gaseous chlorine dioxide sterilization process, will be sprayed with alcohol, e.g, 70% ethanol, and the laminar flow exhaust will be initiated. Utilizing aseptic techniques, previously sterilized via autoclave, surgical instrument, cryovials, cryotray, flasks, syringes, needles, additional containers, and all processing equipment will be placed within the laminar flow hood. Exterior packaging is sprayed with alcohol prior to being transferred to the operator.

As described herein, prior to operation, nylon mesh graft backing should be cut into squares of appropriate size for the dosage levels, sealed in an autoclavable pouch, and sterilized via steam. Exterior of pouch will then be sterilized with 70% ethanol and placed in the fume hood. Exterior package of 10 mL Cryovials will be decontaminated with 70% ethanol and placed into the fume hood. Sterile, autoclaved surgical instrument package should be sprayed with 70% ethanol and transferred to the operator.

Sterile syringes and needles should be sprayed with 70% ethanol and transferred to the operator. Graft tissue recently harvest form the porcine donor will be transferred to the hood. Anything entering the sterile field is wiped down with 70% ethanol prior to transfer to the operator. Operator will have access to all required materials in the fume hood: Grafts (in sterile container), Cryovials, 10 mL syringes and needles, Phase Freezer holding rack, and cut Nylon mesh. Operator should be seated at the fume hood with in compliance with sterile, aseptic technique.

Referring to FIG. 45, each cryovial will be sterilized and labeled in advance to reduce processing time and unnecessary material exposure to DMSO prior to cryopreservation. Pans containing each xenotransplantation product and the RPMI 1640 Tissue Culture Media at room temperature with antibiotics (e.g., antipathogen bath) is placed under the laminar flow hood. The products had been bathing in the anti-pathogen bath for not less than 30 minutes to sterilize the xenotransplantation product.

In one aspect, when using UV light sterilization, the cryovials are sterilized using the UV lamp as described above. After the product is inserted into each vial, each new cap is placed on each new vial and screwed on securely. Each vial is placed under the lamp and periodically rolled for desired even exposure to light on the exterior of the vial. The vials are placed inside a glass jar that has an interior that has been previously sterilized and the exterior is sterilized by the operator with alcohol and chlorhexidine, including threads and caps. Vials are wiped down with alcohol and are placed into glass jars. The exteriors of the glass jars are drenched with alcohol outside of the hood. Under the hood, the operator bathes the glass jar lids and plunges the open ends of the jars into alcohol and wipes the exterior of the jars with alcohol (and optionally chlorhexidine) including threads of the jar. The vials are wiped with alcohol utilizing gauze and placed inside each glass jar with an instrument. The lids of the glass jars are then secured and the jars are handed to the assistant. Frequently and on a periodic basis throughout these processes, the assistant sprays the operator's gloves and arms with alcohol.

In this example, the xenotransplantation skin product, which was cut to form in the surgical suite with sterile scissors and was trimmed with 10-blade scalpel, will be re-measured with a sterile, stainless steel ruler to verify technical specifications and dimensions have been met. The xenotransplantation skin product is visually inspected to ensure no rips, tears, observable defects, or excessive or insufficient thickness are present.

Under the laminar flow hood the operator will use forceps to take a single xenotransplantation skin product from the antipathogen bath and place it upon a piece of nylon mesh that has been previously cut to fit the cryovial, centered on the nylon mesh, with the dermis side in contact with the mesh (e.g., dermis side down), taking 1 minute for each product (understanding the time could be less or more, and up to 5 minutes for each product). It will be understood that the sterile nylon mesh packaging component is utilized, among other things, to support the xenotransplantation product and prevent self-adhesion of the xenotransplantation product when rolled.

It will be further understood that the sterile nylon mesh packaging component can be of any dimension that would allow the xenotransplantation product to be placed onto the sterile nylon mesh packaging component and fit within the two dimensional surface area (i.e., the length and width not including the thickness) of the sterile nylon mesh packaging component (e.g., the two dimensional area dimension of the xenotransplantation product would be less than the two dimensional area dimension of the sterile nylon mesh packaging component).

It will be further understood that the dimensions of the sterile nylon mesh packaging component would be sized in accordance with the xenotransplantation product size and dosage. For example, the sterile nylon mesh packaging component is 8 cm×7.5 cm (60 cm²) to fit a 5 cm×5 cm xenotransplantation skin product (25 cm²) (7.5 grams) utilizing 7 ml of cryoprotective media when placed in the cryovial. It will be even further understood that the dimensions of the sterile nylon mesh packaging component is 8 cm×22.5 cm (180 cm²) to fit a 5 cm×15 cm xenotransplantation skin product (75 cm²) (22.5 grams) utilizing 5 ml of cryoprotective media when placed in the cryovial.

Unintentional adhesion of epidermal or dermal regions of the xenotransplantation skin product during packaging may disrupt the integrity of the xenotransplantation skin product and potentially reduce its therapeutic viability. Inclusion of the sterile nylon-mesh packaging component is intended to provide internal physical support to and prevent self-adhesion. The sterile nylon-mesh packaging component is not biologically or chemically active and does not directly impact the metabolic activity or efficacy of the xenotransplantation skin product itself.

During the course of numerous experiments, including the monkey studies described in Example 1 herein, use of this sterile nylon-mesh packaging component has never been observed to cause an adverse, undesired reaction with the xenotransplantation product, or degrade and contaminate the final xenotransplantation product causing adverse reactions or outcomes to the recipient. The sterile, nylon-mesh packaging component is not used in the grafting procedure. Following cryopreservation and thawing, and prior to use of the xenotransplantation product, it is discarded. Thus, selection of the specific material and associated specifications were carefully chosen for the given application. Medifab 100-Micron Nylon Mesh (Part #03-100/32-Medifab) is manufactured per cGMP standards, and was selected because of its physical characteristics and certified acceptability for human, clinical use.

Under the laminar flow hood, the operator will then tightly roll this combination of xenotransplantation product and nylon mesh packaging component and place the combination within a cryovial (e.g., 10 ml vial) taking 1 minute for each product (understanding the time could be less or more, and up to 5 minutes for each product). In this aspect, the mesh material is rolled to ensure that the vertical height of the cylinder is 8 cm and uniformly fits within the 10 ml cryovial (e.g., 10 cm length and 17 mm diameter) and once completed, can be secured with a threaded seal cap. The mesh material is oriented such that the protective mesh material is on the exterior of the xenotransplantation product, and that once the rolled is complete there is no exposed or visible xenotransplantation material and it is fully encased in the protective insert. The intrinsic tensile and material properties of the sterile nylon-mesh packaging component are homogenous, and the inelasticity or stiffness of the material causes it to expand to fill the volume of the cryovial. Thus, regardless of the initial “roll-density”, the material will uniformly loosen and is therefore standardized.

Under the laminar flow hood the operator will then use a sterile syringe to draw up enough sterile cryoprotective media (e.g., 5-7 ml of the media with 5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (Cryostor CS5, BioLife Solutions)) to fill the cryovial until the skin product roll is fully immersed, ensuring that the combination of xenotransplantation skin material, mesh backing, and cryoprotectant media is flush with the 10 ml fill line, taking 1 minute for each product (understanding the time could be less or more, and up to 5 minutes for each product).

Under the laminar flow hood, the operator will seal the cryovial with the threaded cap. The identity of the contents and label information are confirmed by the operator. Labels are prepopulated and applied to the exterior of the cryovials containing the product in advance of the product processing.

It will be understood that the preparation of the xenotransplantation products and packaging components described herein could be in the form of therapeutic dosages. For example, the xenotransplantation drug product consists of:

-   -   q. Xenotransplantation split-thickness skin Drug Substance     -   r. Primary Container Closure System which includes         -   i. Primary Packaging Component: a sterile, clear,             polypropylene 10 ml cryovial with threaded seal-cap     -   ii. Sterile nylon-mesh packaging component     -   iii. Cryoprotective media packaging component         The indicated dosage of Xenotransplantation product is 300 mg of         vital, metabolically active, porcine xenotransplantation drug         substance per cm², with a constant thickness of 0.55 mm. Example         formulations include:     -   s. Dosage Strength 1: a 25 cm² split thickness skin graft, with         uniform thickness of 0.55 mm, which weighs approximately 7.5         grams.     -   t. Dosage Strength 2: a 75 cm² split thickness skin graft, with         uniform thickness of 0.55 mm, which weights approximately 22.5         grams.

An example xenotransplantation drug product primary packaging component is a sterile, clear, polypropylene 10 ml cryovial with threaded seal-cap. For example, the Simport Cryovial, T310 (10-ml) is manufactured by Simport Scientific. This product is composed of medical grade resin that is BPA free, Heavy Metal Free, and LATEX Free and meets USP Class VI limits.

A nylon-mesh packaging component is utilized during the xenotransplantation drug product manufacturing process. The prepared xenotransplantation drug product is placed on sterile nylon-mesh packaging component (e.g., Medifab 100-Micron Nylon Mesh) that has been previously trimmed to the following dimensions:

-   -   u. Dosage Strength 1: 7.5 cm in width by 8 cm in height; total         area of 60 cm²     -   v. Dosage Strength 2: 22.5 cm in width by 8 cm in height; total         area of 180 cm²

A cryoprotective media packaging component is also utilized during the drug manufacturing process. The xenotransplantation drug product is immersed in the following volumes of cryoprotective media packaging component prior to cryopreservation:

-   -   w. Dosage Strength 1: 7 ml of Cryostor CS5 (containing 5% DMSO).     -   x. Dosage Strength 2: 5 ml of Cryostor CS5 (containing 5% DMSO).

With regard to the assurance of saturation of cryoprotective media, the indicated amount of CryoStor CS5 media (per Dosage Strength) is applied via 10 ml syringe with the cryovial (such as a type of cryovial shown in FIG. 46) in the vertical position, under a laminar flow hood (ISO-5, FED STD 209E Class 100 conditions) Cryomedia fills the voided space(s), and gravity ensures that the fill-process begins from the base of the vertically oriented cryovial towards the fill line at the apex. Volume is added until it reaches the manufacturers demarcated 10 ml fill line. Filling the vial in this manner also facilitates the removal of air bubbles. Once complete, the threaded cap is sealed. Visual and physical verification of saturation and fill is accomplished, ensuring that contents the xenotransplantation product are unable to shift internally.

Cryopreservation

Product materials will be placed in the appropriate freezer rack containing cryovials with product as described above, and placed in a certified, Q-A control rate-phase freezer. Using a certified, Q-A control rate-phase freezer, the entire product is cryopreserved via one standardized control-rate freezing process:

-   -   y. Starting at 4° C., internal chamber and sample temperature         probe will lower at a rate of 1° Celsius per minute until a         temperature of −40° C. is achieved.     -   z. Once temperature of −40° C. has been reached in a controlled         rate, control-rate freezer sample temperature probe should lower         rapidly from −40° C. to −80° C.     -   aa. Material is then transferred to a GLP certified, −80° C.         freezer until use.         Taking 40 minutes per batch time from room temperature to         −80° C. (understanding the time could be less or more, and up to         2 hours). In some aspects, penetrative cryoprotectants such as         DMSO, may be used to protect morphology and tissue structure,         and retain metabolic activity levels comparable to that of fresh         skin. In some aspects, cryopreservation may alternatively or         additionally include one or more of glycerol, gentamicin,         Nystatin, L-glutamine, and other processing solutions. In some         aspects, β-lactam antibiotics are not used.

Inclusion of the cryoprotective-media packaging component is intended to support cell survival during the freeze-thaw cycle required for the xenotransplantation product. Failure to include the cryoprotective media packaging component of xenotransplantation product during packaging may disrupt the integrity of the xenotransplantation product or impede the cryopreservation process, and may potentially reduce the xenotransplantation product viability below acceptance criteria. Cryopreservation of the xenotransplantation product without inclusion a cryoprotective media results in destruction of biologically active cells contained in the xenotransplantation product. Rapid formation of ice crystals and disruption of cellular membranes and mitochondrial organelle barriers occurs during the freezing process, and the dimethyl-sulfoxide ingredient acts to displace intracellular fluid. Thus, the cryoprotective media reduces the formation of such ice crystals and rapid, disruptive increase in total cellular volume that would negatively impact the cellular viability and, thus, the efficacy of the Drug Product.

During the course of a number of experiments, including the monkey studies in Example 1 herein, use of this cryoprotective-media packaging component has never been observed to cause an adverse, undesired reaction with the xenotransplantation product, or degrade and contaminate the final xenotransplantation product causing adverse reactions or outcomes to the recipient. Thus, selection of the specific material and associated specifications were chosen to meet appropriate standards necessary of a xenotransplantation product intended for human, clinical use. This including identifying a cryoprotective media with minimal, subclinical levels of DMSO, one that would satisfactorily perform without the need for inclusion of an additional xenotransplantation material (porcine serum) in the formulation. The cryoprotective media-packaging component is not used in the grafting procedure. Upon thawing, and prior to use of the xenotransplantation for therapeutic uses including as a drug product, it is discarded. CryoStor CS5 is manufactured per cGMP standards and was selected because of its certified acceptability for human, clinical use.

Shipping to Clinical Site

Shipping the product to the clinical site should be done to maintain the xenotransplantation skin product material at −80° C. storage condition. One example shipping container is the EXP-6 Standard Dry Vapor Shipper having an extensive, having the following specifications:

-   -   Dynamic Holding Time 10 Days     -   Holding Temperature −150° C. or Colder     -   Core Technology Dry Vapor Liquid Nitrogen     -   Specimen Chamber 2.8″ (71 mm) Diameter     -   11.5″ (292 mm) Depth     -   Weight Dry 9.7 lbs/4.4 kg     -   Charged 18.3 lbs/8.3 kg     -   Domestic Dimensional 21.07 lbs/9.56 kg     -   International Dimensional 24.87 lbs/11.28 kg     -   Outer Box 12″×12″×22″     -   (305×305×559 mm)         Aspects of the shipping process are also shown in FIG. 47         including, but not limited to, (1) cryopreservation storage; (2)         xenotransplantation product in cryovial and media as described         herein while in cryopreservation storage; (3) cryovial placed in         dry vapor shipping container (or secondary closure system); (4)         container and vial shipped via courier; (5) xenotransplantation         product controlled and monitored at delivery location (can last         at least 10 days at minus (−) 150 degrees Celsius or         colder); (6) xenotransplantation product in cryovial and media         as described herein removed from container/secondary closure         system; (7) xenotransplantation product in cryovial and media as         described herein placed in freezer at location being stored at         −80° C.

Clinical Site Preparation

In one aspect, the drug product arrives at the clinical site as a cryopreserved xenotransplantation product. Prior to use, the xenotransplantation product must be thawed in a 37° C. water bath, removed from the vial and washed in a series of 3 sterile 0.9% saline baths at room temperature.

For the thawing process, sterile equipment and aseptic techniques are used:

-   -   a) Prepare 200 mL of normal saline into each of three 500 mL         sterile, surgical bowls.     -   b) Place the unopened cryovial with the skin product in water         bath having a temperature of about 25° C. In some embodiments,         the temperature is about 37° C.     -   c) In the bath, swirl gently for approximately 5 minutes or         until tissue is mobile within the cryovial, taking care to         minimize unnecessary exposure time the xenotransplantation skin         product tissue is suspended in the thawed DMSO as much as         possible.     -   d) Open the cryovial and use sterile forceps to quickly remove         tissue and mesh to transfer into a bowl of normal saline.     -   e) Using sterile forceps, ensure tissue is fully submerged in         saline for 15 seconds, agitating by swirling gently to maximize         coverage. The underlying, supportive mesh material should be         separated from the skin xenotransplantation skin product         material. Use a second pair of sterile forceps to separate if         necessary. Mesh can be left in the bowl, or discarded.     -   f) Using sterile forceps, transfer the skin into a second bowl         wash. Submerge fully and gently swirl for 15 seconds; this is a         serial dilution or “rinse”.     -   g) Repeat the previous step, using sterile forceps to transfer         the skin into a third wash of normal saline. Submerge fully and         gently swirl for about 15 seconds.     -   h) The entire duration of the rinse process should be completed         within 60 seconds to minimize unnecessary exposure time the         product is suspended in thawed DMSO in order to maximize product         efficacy.     -   i) Tissue is now thawed, rinsed, and ready for application.         Leave in normal saline until use, not to exceed 2 hours at about         25° C.

After the complete, thaw and rinse process is complete, the xenotransplantation product is ready for placement on the wound site. Serial washes in saline, once thawed provide ample dilutive solvent to remove the residual cryoprotectant (5% DMSO solution, CryoStor CS5) and replace the intracellular fluid levels to normal homeostatic conditions. Such dilution and use of a cryoprotective media containing a sub-clinical level of DMSO ensures that any minimal, residual DMSO remaining on the xenotransplantation skin product material post-thaw would be non-appreciable and would be highly unlikely to be clinically significant. This process also ensures retention of the maximum amount of metabolically active cells, and thereby maximizing the efficacy of the xenotransplantation product.

Example of Thawing. Following is one example of a thawing procedure for a xenotransplantation product. Thawing can occur in a BioSafety Cabinet with operator in sterile gloves as follows: (i) prepare 200 mL of Normal saline into each of three 500 mL surgical bowls; (ii) prepare the water bath by wiping it clean with chlorhexidine then spraying it down with 70% ethanol; (iii) after the ethanol has dried add sterile water solution into the water bath and heat to 37° C.+/−2° C.; (iv) the xenotransplantation drug product is in a double bag, leave it unopened and place it into the 37° C. water bath; (v) swirl gently for approximately 5 minutes or until the tissue is mobile within the cryovial; (vi) minimize the time the tissue spends in thawed DMSO as much as possible; (vii) spray the outside bags with ethanol and remove the vial from the outer bags and spray the xenotransplantation drug product cryovials with 70% ethanol before placing into Biosafety Cabinet; (viii) unscrew the cryovial and use forceps to quickly remove tissue and mesh to transfer into a bowl of normal saline; (ix) use forceps to ensure tissue is fully submerged in saline for 60 seconds, agitating by swirling gently to maximize coverage; (x) the mesh should be separated from the skin, using a second pair of forceps to separate if necessary; (xi) the mesh can be left in the bowl, or discarded; (xii) using forceps transfer the skin into the second bowl wash; (xiii) submerge fully and gently swirl for 60 seconds; (xiv) using forceps transfer the skin into the third bowl wash and submerge fully and gently swirl for 60 seconds. Tissue is now thawed and ready for application. Keep it moist with sterile saline in a sterile pan.

The process of rolling the inert, nylon mesh backing and the xenotransplantation skin product results in uniform “roll-density” of the xenotransplantation product. All mesh materials are cut to uniform dimensions, according to the prescribed dimensions for the given application, and are obtained from the same material lot, thus affording uniform material properties for all units of the skin product manufactured within a specific lot.

The intrinsic tensile and material properties of the nylon mesh insert are homogenous, and the inelasticity or stiffness of the material causes it to expand to fill the volume of the primary container closure system (cryovial). Thus, regardless of the initial “roll-density”, the material will uniformly loosen and is therefore standardized.

The indicated amount of CryoStor CS5 media (per Dosage Strength) is applied via 10 ml-syringe with the cryovial in the vertical position, under Class 100, IS05 conditions within an ABSL-2 laminar flow hood.

Cryomedia fills the voided space(s), and gravity ensures that the fill-process begins from the base of the vertically oriented cryovial towards the fill line at the apex. Volume is added until it reaches the manufacturers demarcated 10 ml fill line. Filling the vial in this manner also facilitates the removal of air bubbles.

Once complete, the threaded cap is sealed. Visual and physical assurance of saturation and fill is accomplished by the shaking the skin product ensuring that contents are unable to shift internally. Aspects of the cryovial are also shown in FIG. 46, with aspects that can include, among other things, 10 ml volume, size of 17 mm×84 mm, vertical ribs facilitating cap removal, silicone washer, cap and tube made of the same polypropylene material with the same coefficient of expansion ensuring seal at all temperatures, 1 and 1/4 turn thread design, thick wall, large white marking area, and round bottom allowing for ease of emptying contents.

Aspects of the secondary closure system is shown in FIG. 48, with aspects that can include, among other things, Tyvek—1073B medical grade construction, 5 inches wide×12″ high, storage ability of 15 cames or 2 cryovial boxes, holding temperature of −150 degrees Celsius or colder, utilization of dry vapor liquid nitrogen, IATA rated 10 days of dynamic holding time under normal shipping conditions, specimen chamber diameter of 2.8 inches (71 mm), specimen chamber depth of 11.5 inches (292 mm), dry weight of 9.7 lbs/4.4 kg, charged weight of 18.3 lbs./8.3 kg, domestic dimensional weight of 21.07 lbs./9.56 kg, international dimensional weight of 24.87 lbs./11.28 kg, outer box dimensions of 12″×12″×22.”

No additional or external impurities in the product are anticipated to be present since processing involves only the minimal mechanical manipulation of the product, and no other chemical or biological agents are introduced during this closed process. Acceptance criteria testing required for use of the source animals for the product manufacturing process is conducted as described herein and documented via the Drug Product COA. The final product is evaluated for viral adventitious agents as described herein.

In terms of shelf life, continuous storage of the xenotransplantation product as described support a shelf life long-term stability (cell-viability) of up to at least 7 years (in one embodiment is a shelf life of 6 months) when stored continuously at −80° C. The shelf-life duration of continued cryopreservation of the xenotransplantation product with of at least 7 years. Table 10 shows stability time points that the xenotransplantation product will be tested.

TABLE 10 Stability Study Time Points Time points (Months) Assay 0 12 24 36 60 Histology A B B B B Sterility A B B B B Endotoxin A B B B B Viability A B B B B A = initial product release testing B = stability testing for Xenotransplantation product

In accordance with one aspect, following in Table 11 are items that can be utilized in a certificate of analysis and release.

TABLE 11 Test Results Test Method Acceptance Criteria Results Appearance Visual Clear, colorless to slightly Conforms Inspection yellow liquid with no visible particulates pH TM5110 7.5 to 7.7 7.6 USP <791> Metabolic TMSlOO Cell viability is 75% to 87 Activity 200% of cells preserved Assay in the internal standard at Day 1 recovery following preservation. Endotoxin Kinetic s 0.5 EU/ml Conforms Chromogenic USP <85> Sterility Membrane Sterile Conforms Filtration USP <71> Identification TMSlll FT-IR Conforms to CryoStor Conforms CSS Reference Standard Osmolality TM 5112 1360-1390 mOsm/kgH20 1388 USP <785> Specific TM5114 1.055-1.063 1.059 Gravity DMSO Gas 4.0%-7.0% 5.0 Content Chromatography (FID)

Example 3

Porcine skin shares fundamental properties with human skin and represents a potential alternative to human cadaver skin grafts for temporary coverage of severe burns. The impact of extended cryopreservation on porcine grafts on graft viability, graft take, and barrier function was examined in a study using a model of MHC matched and mismatched MHC Class II skin transplants.

Cellular viability was assessed using formazan-MTT and the biological properties of the grafts, were assessed by grafting on swine recipients. To complement the in vivo clinical assessments, histologic, and morphologic analyses, a series of MTT-reduction assays were performed to evaluate the residual viability of porcine grafts after cryopreservation and long-term storage. Mitochondria reduce MTT into a formazan metabolite, which can be observed as purple hue. Harnessing this phenomenon, an analysis of changes in optical density values measured by a spectrophotometer, or an interpolation of the quantities of formazan produced against standard curves, can provide differential assessments of cellular viability, between experimental samples and positive and negative controls. There were 2 cohorts of 2 animals each (total, N=4) based upon the MHC match and each swine received 4 grafts: one autograft and three allografts of identical MHC-profiles. Grafts were clinically assessed for graft-take, adherence, and time to graft rejection. Rejection was also assessed histologically via the Banff grading scale.

Direct comparisons between otherwise equivalent materials yield meaningful, differential times of survival, based solely on duration of storage, holding all other factors constant. Side-by-side, in vivo evaluations are performed between equivalent grafts, preserved in identical fashion, stored for periods of 15 minutes versus 7 years. Clinical gross assessments and photographs, paired with independent histological assessments, determine whether any appreciable differences in graft survival exist relative to the length of time in the frozen state. In tandem, separate in vitro assessments of graft viability, quantified by MTT-reduction assays, characterize the metabolic activity of cells post-cryopreservation and various storage terms. Further, independent histomorphological analysis, using standard histological (H&E) staining, provides evidence as to whether these processes cause observable changes to the graft material at a structural level. This study advantageously used materials that had been stored, uninterrupted, for such a time, along with the associated surgical records and standardized institutional protocols. Further, processing methods and protocols between the comparative groups were standardized, and identically applied, with respect to cryopreservation and thawing protocols, reagents, and methods employed. Combined, this allowed for isolated, side-by-side evaluation of duration of storage, and alleviated the need to model or extrapolate findings, or otherwise use normative predictive methods. Furthermore, the use of MHC-matched and Class II mismatched donor-recipient pairs in this model of allogeneic skin transplantation served as internal controls to both confirm the identity of the tissues obtained seven years earlier, and the veracity of the surgical notes and documentation. Further, equivalent behavior exhibited by the allografts also demonstrates that the antigenicity of the grafts was not altered as a result of the duration of storage.

There were no technical failures; all grafts adhered to their respective wound beds and re-vascularized. In cohort 1 (MHC-matched donor-recipient pair), all grafts remained adherent, and appeared uniformly healthy at postoperative day (POD) 12 (FIG. 49A), but at POD-14, signs of necrosis, progressive erythema and loss of adherence were observed (FIG. 49B). Clinical assessment of the 6 grafts in cohort 1 showed rejection at POD-14 to 18. In cohort 2, MHC Class II mismatched, allogeneic grafts appeared comparable to autografts through POD-4. However, by POD-8, all allogeneic grafts demonstrated mild erythema, consistent with rejection and were considered fully rejected by POD-10. No statistically significant difference in the duration, quality of adherence, or cellular viability among the fresh, recently preserved, and long term preserved skin grafts were observed. The cryopreserved materials were, statistically speaking, more alive than dead, and this finding was empirically witnessed in vivo, as all 7-year grafts demonstrated adherence to the wound bed and prolonged survivability. Such survivability would not have been exhibited by non-vital allografts. Without limiting the invention, it will be understood that the time period for cryopreservation for the present invention may, for example, include any length of time up to about 7 years.

Materials and Methods:

The study was conducted in accordance an IACUC approved protocol (2005N000279, Amendment 69) at the Center for Transplantation Sciences, and in compliance with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal Welfare Act (9 CFR Parts 1, 2 and 3), the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, and all state, local laws and regulations. Study protocols, surgical procedures, and animal care guidelines were independently reviewed and monitored by a standing IACUC committee.

A total of eight swine were enrolled in this experiment, and all were members of the Sachs-NIH, inbred miniature swine colony. At the time of surgery, all swine were between 10 and 20-kg in total body weight and between 2 and 4 months of age. Immunosuppression regimen(s) were not administered at any time during this experiment. Animals 24074 and 24075 were assigned to Cohort 1 and represented a MHC-matched donor-recipient pair. Animals 24043 and 24070 were assigned to Cohort 2 and represented a mis-match of MHC Class II donor-recipient pair. Separately, for the in vitro, MTT series of analyses, five, additional wild-type Gottingen miniature swine provided tissues for positive and negative controls.

Swine donors were anesthetized with I.M. 2 mg/kg telazol (tiletamine HCl and zolazepam HCl, Zoetis Inc., Kalamazoo, Mich.) and brought to the operating room for orotracheal intubation. Anesthesia was maintained using 2% isoflurane and oxygen. Skin surfaces were disinfected before surgery with chlorhexidine acetate (NolvasanR Surgical Scrub, Fort Dodge Animal Health, Fort Dodge, Iowa) and povidone-iodine, 10% (Betadine Solution, Purdue Products, L.P., Stamford, Conn.). The animals were then draped, leaving the right side of the dorsum exposed. Split-thickness skin grafts, measuring approximately 25 cm² (surface area) were harvested between the scapula and inferior margin of the lowermost rib from each animal using an air-driven Zimmer dermatome (Medfix Solution, Inc., Tucson, Ariz.) with the depth set to 0.056-cm (0.022 inches).

Following skin graft harvest, grafts intended for cryopreservation and storage for limited duration grafts underwent a standardized institutional protocol and were maintained at −80° C. for 15 minutes prior to thawing. Long-term cryopreserved grafts had been continuously stored at −80° C. for a period of more than 7 years. All grafts, previously sized to approximately 25 cm², were placed on a sterile nylon mesh backing for structural support and rolled for placement into a threaded seal cryovial under a laminar flow hood. Once all grafts were prepared, approximately 5-mL of freeze media was added to the vial and sealed. The protocol required freeze media prepared by combining 15% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) cryoprotective media (Lonza BioWhittaker) with fetal porcine serum (FPS) or donor serum (if FPS is unavailable) in a 1:1 ratio, filtering (0.45 micron), and chilling to 4° C. prior to use. The vials were subsequently frozen in a controlled rate, phase freezer at a rate of 1° C. per minute to −40° C., then rapidly cooled to a temperature −80° C., at which they remained for 15 minutes for those test articles in the control group subjected to limited storage duration, or for a period of more than 7 years in the case of the those experimental grafts in the test group exposed to extended duration of cryopreservation. DMSO displaces intracellular fluid during the freezing process. Cryoprotective media, e.g., CryoStor is used in an amount of about 40-80%, or 50-70% based on maximum internal volume of the cryovial (10 ml) less the volume of the xenotransplantation product.

In order to thaw the grafts for surgical use, sealed vials were placed in 37° C. water baths for approximately 1 minute, at which point the vial was opened and the frozen graft was removed using sterile technique. Subsequently, grafts underwent 3, 1-minute serial washes in normal saline with gentle agitation, in order to dilute and systematically remove ambient, residual DMSO and prevent loss of cell viability. Grafts were then taken to the surgical field in normal saline at 25° C. for engraftment.

Two separate, but identical, surgical events were performed in succession. The entire surgical plan included a total of four (n=4) donor-recipient swine, employing two animals per each of the two experimental cohorts (Cohort 1 and Cohort 2), paired intentionally based on SLA-configurations as described previously. In total, four technical controls and twelve (n=12) experimental grafts were engrafted and subsequently observed.

Each animal received four deep-partial defects along the animal's right dorsum, in a linear (caudal to cranial) orientation, ordered from 1 to 4, respectively. Deep-partial wound defects were surgically introduced via additional passes with the dermatome after the initial split thickness graft harvest. The resulting wound beds were uniform, free of visible debris, and demonstrated independent, punctate bleeding. These defects were interrupted, and not made in a single continuous pass with the dermatome. Instead, care was given to create four, isolated but equivalent wounds with regards to overall size, depth, and anatomical location.

Following thawing, but prior to engraftment, all split-thickness skin grafts were fenestrated using a 15 (size) blade to prevent seroma or hematoma formation. Graft test articles were independently placed on the prepared wound bed and uniformly sutured in place using simple interrupted, 3-0 nylon sutures, applied in a graft-to-wound bed manner. Approximately 16 points of fixation were introduced per graft, spaced evenly around the graft, with the resulting knot located on the wound border, not the graft article. This technique ensured that minimal, but adequate, residual tension was present and uniform, which is necessary for optimal graft-to-wound adherence, minimization of hematomas, and optimal graft survivability.

At Wound Site 1 (most caudal), a split-thickness autograft was placed, serving as a technical control. This autograft test article was harvested during the wound bed creation, subsequently underwent the same freeze-thaw process concomitantly with all experimental grafts, and was held in an identical, cryopreserved state for the same duration as the control grafts identified for a limited duration (15 minutes at −80° C.). At Wound Site 2, a split-thickness allograft from its respective cohort pair-mate was sutured into place. This graft represented test articles exposed to cryopreservation for a limited duration (15 minutes at −80° C.). At Wound Site 3, a split-thickness allograft from the wild-type donor, which represented a split-thickness graft, with identical SLA matching as those at Wound Site 2 that had experienced “extended” storage in the cryopreserved state (more than 7 years at −80° C.). At Wound Site 4 (most cranial), a split-thickness allograft from a genetically engineered knockout donor, which represented a split-thickness graft, with identical SLA matching as those grafts at Wound Site 2, sourced from the genetically engineered donor animal, that had also experienced “extended” exposure in the cryopreserved state (−80° C.) for more than 7 years.

Overlying pressure dressings, consisting of Xeroform petrolatum gauze (Medtronic), Telfa™ non-adhesive dressing (Covidien, Minneapolis, Minn.), and sterile gauze were maintained in place and dry with multiple, overlapping sheets of Tegaderm™ (3M, St. Paul, Minn.). Recipients were then dressed with cotton jackets to reduce interference with the grafts. Graft dressings were removed on POD-2 and changed daily thereafter. Total postoperative follow up was 20 days. Animals were monitored for signs of pain including vocalization, tachypnea, loss of appetite, and changes in attitude, behavior, and mobility. Transdermal fentanyl patches were applied for post-operative analgesia. All sutures were removed by POD-7.

To validate the assay method and establish boundary conditions specific to test articles of split thickness skin porcine skin, two independent assay series were performed on fresh (n=5, 5) and heat denatured samples (n=5, 5). The (geometric) average formazan produced on fresh samples was 0.221±0.022-mg/mL and 0.300±0.035-mg/mL, respectively. In contrast, the (geometric) average formazan produced by heat-denatured samples was 0.094±0.020-mg/mL and 0.105±0.009-mg/mL, respectively. These differences were statistically significant in both cases (p<0.05).

All four porcine recipients tolerated the surgical procedure and recovered fully without incident. All sixteen (n=16) grafts re-vascularized without evidence of technical complication, and uniformly exhibited adherence to the underlying wound bed (i.e. “good take”). Over the course of the post-operative observational period, no grafts were lost due to mechanical disturbance or exhibited any clinical signs of wound infection. All four (n=4) autografts at Wound Site 1 healed permanently and were indistinguishable from surrounding tissues at the study end-point, acting as a technical control for the skin grafting, cryopreservation and thawing technique.

In Cohort 1, all six (n=6) allogeneic grafts demonstrated equivalent adherence to the underlying wound bed and uniformly exhibited clinical signs consistent with vascularization and perfusion on postoperative days (POD) 2 and 4. Notable, however, was the contrast (loss) of color exhibited by the allografts that had been cryopreserved for an extended duration. All four of these grafts appeared paler as compared to the autograft and allografts at Wound Site 2. This appearance fully resolved in all grafts, in both Animals, by POD-6. All six (n=6) allografts exhibited mild sloughing of the superficial epidermis by POD-8, but grafts remained viable, adherent, and appeared otherwise healthy at inspection on POD-12. In Animal 24074, grafts at Wound Sites 2 and 3 showed initial signs of necrosis, progressive erythema, and loss of adherence by POD-14, and presented increasing signs of immune-mediated rejection, until final rejection at POD-18. However, the allograft at Wound Site 4 (most-cranial) did not similarly persist; instead, on POD-14 this graft was significantly darker and exhibited signs of complete necrosis and was clinically assessed to be fully rejected at this time. The rapid loss of the graft 4, from viability at POD-12 to complete avulsion by POD-14, dissimilar and distinct from Wound Site 2 and Wound Site 3, was notable. For grafts on Animal 24075, all grafts were rejected on POD-14.

In Cohort 2, animals presented similarly to those in Cohort 1 through POD-4, and equivalently to each other. Overall, clinical signs were comparable in progression to the minor-mismatched grafts in Cohort 1, but at an accelerated pace. The grafts that had experienced extended cryopreservation appeared paler at POD-2 and POD-4 than the grafts that had not experienced cryopreservation, and all grafts showed increased evidence of perfusion and vascularization by POD-6. By POD-8, all three allogeneic grafts in Animal 24043, showed clear signs of rejection and were considered fully rejected. In Animal 24070, all three allogeneic grafts showed clear signs of rejection and were considered fully rejected by POD-10. However, all allogeneic grafts survived at the same rate, irrespective of the genetics or length of storage.

With respect to grafts subjected to limited or extended durations of cryopreservation, 100% of allograft comparators at Wound Sites 2 and 3 (n=4 of 4) were identical with respect to clinical assessment of duration of graft survival. Comparison of Wound Sites 2 and 4 were coincident (n=3), with the exception of the allograft at Wound Site 4, Animal 24074, which survived until POD-14 (n=1), determined to be clinically and rejected four days prior to its counterparts.

Overall, histological assessments closely mirrored the clinical assessments. Following surgery, all grafts, including autografts, exhibited early signs of acute inflammation during initial observations on POD-2 and 4, that later resolved with time. All allografts in Cohort 2, as compared to those in Cohort 1, uniformly exhibited accelerated progression towards immune-mediated rejection.

Ultimately, all six (n=6) allogeneic grafts in Cohort 1, and three allogeneic grafts (n=3) from Animal 24043 in Cohort 2, independently demonstrated histological and microscopic signs of rejection coterminous with the independent gross clinical assessments. The single exception were the three allografts engrafted on Animal 24070, where each graft received Banff scores of 4 (of 4) on POD-10, but were not deemed officially rejected until POD-12, one assessment period (2 days) later than the corresponding clinical designation assigned at POD-10.

With respect to grafts subjected to limited or extended durations of cryopreservation, 100% of allograft comparators at Wound Sites 2 and 3 (n=4 of 4) were identical with respect to histological assessment of duration of graft survival. Comparison of Wound Sites 2 and 4 were coincident (n=3), with the exception of the allograft at Wound Site 4, Animal 24074, which survived 14 days post-operatively (n=1), determined to be histologically rejected four days prior to its counterparts.

Neither the MTT nor the neutral red staining technique, as applied on either testing occasion, were deemed effective for histological and microscopic evaluation, however the standard hemotoxylin and eosin staining demonstrated observable tissue destruction of the heat denatured specimens.

Overall, using a linear, mixed effect model with random intercept, the mean survival of grafts at Wound Site 3 was 0.00 (95% CI: −1.10, 1.10 days) less than allografts at Wound Site 2. The mean survival of grafts at Wound Site 4 was 2.00 (95% CI: 1.10, 3.10 days) less than allografts at Wound Site 2. Histological assessment finds on average 0.5 days more survival than grafts assessed grossly, but this is not statistically distinguishable (p=0.28).Seven of the eight experimental grafts fared equivalently to their comparators. The in vivo experiments showed no statistical difference between grafts subjected to short versus long-term storage. With the exception of the graft at Wound Site 4 on Animal 24074, which was assessed as fully rejected four days earlier than its comparators, graft performance and survivability were indistinguishable between the two groups.

As noted in previous publications, cryopreserved grafts appeared notably paler during the early imbibition and vascularization periods. This contrast was starkly evident for grafts at Wound Sites 3 and 4 in all animals. Ultimately, grafts fully resolved and adhered to the underlying wound bed to an equivalent degree.

Demonstrated viability was evidenced uniformly across the three, independent evaluation methods. The statistical analysis of the MTT-assay shows there was no significant difference between cryopreserved and fresh specimens (FIG. 50A), but significant differences were observed between fresh and cryopreserved specimens versus heat-denatured ones (FIG. 50B). This suggests broadly that the cryopreserved materials were, statistically speaking, more alive than dead. This outcome is substantiated in the in vivo outcomes in which all 7-year grafts demonstrated adherence to the wound bed and prolonged survivability, which would not be exhibited by non-vital grafts.

Regarding the MTT-reduction assays, substantial variability existed between absolute values resulting from such assays, from specimen to specimen and from cohort-to-cohort. Indeed, absolute values of formazan production were actually higher than those obtained from non-cryopreserved samples; it is unlikely that freezing enhanced cellular activity.

Pig skin can be cryopreserved for years, e.g., 1, 3, 5, 7 or more years and retain cell viability and that the genetic modification, Gal-T-KO, did not impact metabolic stability when compared to wild type pig skin processed and stored using the same procedures.

Furthermore, the use of MHC-matched and Class II mismatched donor-recipient pairs in this model of allogeneic skin transplantation served as internal controls to compare the effect of long term cryopreservation (7 years) on the survival of allogeneic skin grafts. The cell viability data after long term cryopreservation is supported by the survival of the skin in vivo. This also demonstrated that the genetic differences (wild type versus Gal-T-KO) of the grafts did not impact the survival of the grafts.

The hypothesis was that graft take, and overall survival, would be inversely proportional to the length of storage duration. In other words, it was expected that the longer the graft had been frozen, the less likely it would survive and mimic the comparator grafts preserved for shorter durations. Surprisingly, these studies revealed that the porcine tissue can be cryopreserved for significant durations, 7 years in the case of the present disclosure, and retain adequate cell viability. Moreover, the genetic modification (Gal-T-KO) did not impact metabolic activity, when compared to wild type skin processed identically. Lastly, the results confirm that the MTT-reduction assay can reliably provide an accurate, useful diagnostic method, and applicable to the assessment of porcine skin graft viability.

The promising results of this study indicate that it may be feasible to cryopreserve and store porcine skin for logistically relevant durations, and our findings are consistent with current industry practices and the multi-year “shelf life” guidance that the American Association for Tissue Banks has established for human cadaveric tissues.

Further, these data indicate that scalable, clinically useful methods of preserving and storing porcine xenotransplantation products with adequate viability are disclosed, and that vital porcine xenotransplantation products that can be effectively stored and distributed.

Example 4 Product Processing Generally

A xenotransplantation product of the present disclosure was processed according to the following procedures.

Personnel

The operator was dressed in sterile dress in accordance with institutional standards to maintain designated pathogen free conditions. The operator wore eye protection safety glasses for ultraviolet light and lasers.

Preparation of Laminar Flow Hood and Product Processing

An ultraviolet laser lamp (Model #) was set up in a laminar flow hood. Each of the four corners of the lamp was placed on two container lids that were stacked on top of each other, i.e., four pairs of lids were used to support the lamp. The distance from the lamp bulbs (2 bulb tubes total) to the floor of the hood was approximately 1.5 inches. The entire interior of the hood was sprayed with alcohol, e.g., ethanol or isopropanol. The lamp was turned on and the operator performed a calculation of time for desired exposure based on lamp specifications, number of bulbs, and distance between the bulbs and the xenotransplantation product.

The operator poured two baths (one chlorhexidine and one alcohol) into two separate bowls and placed the two bowls under the hood.

A package of new sterilized vials was placed under the hood. Vial caps were unscrewed and placed into the chlorhexidine bath. Each vial (without cap) was then turned upside down and plunged open ended into the chlorhexidine bath, for one minute each and then set upright to air dry. Thereafter, the exterior of each vial was wiped with chlorhexidine and alcohol utilizing sterile gauze. The vial caps were removed from the chlorhexidine bath and placed on sterile gauze. The open ends of each vial were plunged into alcohol bath for 1 minute each and then set aside to air dry.

A xenotransplantation product “#46 product” (5×15 cm) having a mesh backing prepared according to Example 2 was removed from its original vial and the operator placed original vial into an empty bowl. Operator placed the #46 product on the paper side of an opened sterilized instrument package. The operator unrolled the #46 product and placed it under the lamp for 2 minutes, then turned it over to the other side, removed the mesh backing, and put it under the lamp for 2 minutes on opposite side, while still on the same paper. The time period for exposing a given sample to the UV light can be varied based on the specific biological agents or the types of biological agents to be sterilized, e.g., as shown in the following Table 12:

TABLE 12 Type of UV-C Dosage (uW Sterilization Biological sec/cm²) for 90% time Biological Agent Agent sterilization (sec)* Penicillium spp. Fungus 224,000 1800 Aspergillus flavus Fungus 34,900 300 Aspergillus niger Fungus 31,500 250 Yeast Fungus 4000 30 Influenza A Virus 1900 15 HIV-1 Virus 28,000 220 Vaccinia Virus 1500 10 Escherichia coli Bacteria 2000 20 Staphylococcus Bacteria 6600 50 aureus Bacillus subtilis Bacteria 6800 50 Mycoplasma spp. Bacteria 8400 70 Pseudomonas Bacteria 2200 20 aeruginosa *Using a UV-C intensity of 125 uW/cm²

Then the “#46 product was removed and cut in half. Each half was rolled by hand and placed into a new vial sterilized as explained above. Each new cap was placed on each new vial and screwed on securely. Each vial was placed under the lamp and periodically rolled for desired even exposure to light on the exterior of the vial. The vials were placed inside a glass jar that had an interior that had been previously sterilized and the exterior was sterilized by the operator with alcohol and chlorhexidine, including threads and caps.

A similar process was performed for the following xenotransplantation products, except instead of being placed on sterile paper prior to entry under the lamp, the mesh was not removed from the products and the products were placed under the lamp skin side up for 2 minutes, then the products were folded over so a first half of the bottom portion of each product faced the lamp for 2 minutes, then the second half of each product was folded over so that the other half of the bottom of each product faced the lamp for 2 minutes. Some of the products were cut into smaller sections and exposed to light, some for periods for longer than 2 minutes, but never less than 2 minutes.

Products #40 (5×15 cm), #63 (10×15 cm), #69 (10×15 cm), and #25, underwent the above processes and products #69 and #25 were rolled exclusively using instruments and the operator did not directly handle those products. As with #46, after operator securely screwed the cap on each vial, each vial was placed under the lamp and rolled for even exposure to light emitted from lamp. Vials were later removed from under the lamp and wiped down with alcohol prior to being placed into glass jars.

Four glass jars were utilized to store each of the sets of vials. Prior to being handed to the operator, the assistant drenched the exteriors of the glass jars with alcohol via a spray bottle. The assistant handed the glass jars to the operator by holding the bottom of each jar and handing to operator outside of hood. After receiving the glass jars from assistant, under the hood, the operator bathed the glass jar lids and plunged the open ends of the jars into alcohol and wiped the exterior of the jars with alcohol including threads of the jar.

The vials were wiped with alcohol utilizing gauze and placed inside each glass jar with an instrument. The lids of the glass jars were then secured and the jars were handed to the assistant. Frequently and on a periodic basis throughout these processes the assistant sprayed the operator's gloves and arms with alcohol.

Thereafter, the products were placed into the phase freezer at the conclusion of the procedures.

Example 5

In a human evaluation of a xenotransplantation product of the present disclosure for treatment of severe and extensive partial and full thickness burns in a human patient, the following results were obtained:

The patient presented with a mixed depth, flame-induced burn injury, resulting in a 14% Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) defect to the (anatomic) right, upper torso—specifically, bordered: from the right lateral axilla (superior border) to the sixth right lateral rib (inferior border) as shown in FIG. 51A.

The surgeon temporarily grafted part of the affected wound area with Human Deceased Donor (HDD) allograft and the xenotransplant product of the present disclosure. The remaining regions of the wound area were covered with a negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT). The patient received approximately 150 cm² of HDD allograft, meshed to a 1:1.5 ratio, and 25 cm² of xenotransplant product of the present disclosure meshed to a 1:1 ratio during surgery, which is specifically shown in FIG. 51B

Both temporary wound closure dressings were placed adjacently, but not in direct contact, and were secured with staples on the perimeter of the tissue(s), overlaid with NPWT.

Upon clinical visual inspection of the first wound dressing change on POD-5, the HDD allograft and xenotransplant product of the present disclosure were both observed to be fully adherent to the underlying wound bed and were indistinguishable as shown in FIG. 51C.

The patient experienced no adverse events and no serious adverse events were observed or reported.

In accordance with the regular clinical standard of care, both HDD allograft and the xenotransplant product of the present disclosure were removed at the first wound dressing change. Following mechanical removal, the underlying wound beds were equally perfused (with visible punctate bleeding) and otherwise appeared equivalent as shown in FIG. 51D.

A POD-5 close-up image of the wound bed for the xenotransplant product of the present disclosure adjacent to wound bed for HDD allograft is shown in FIG. 51E.

On POD-5 following removal, per clinical standard of care, the entire affected area received definitive wound closure via engraftment with a self (auto)graft (autologous split-thickness skin graft), obtained from the patient as shown in FIG. 51F.

Per protocol, blood samples for infectious disease, immunological response, and long-term evaluation were obtained, as well as pre-operative, peri-operative, and post-operative photographs.

On POD-14 (from the first operation), clinical observations at the wound dressing change demonstrated no discernible differences in the wound healing rate or quality at any location as shown in FIG. 51G.

Per protocol, blood samples for infectious disease, immunological response, and long-term evaluation were obtained, as well as pre-operative, peri-operative, and post-operative photographs.

Testing for detection of PERV by quantitative RT-PCR was performed on baseline blood samples (25 mL), first dressing change (21 mL), and two week blood samples (23 mL). The results were as follows:

PERV was not detected by qPCR in either RNA or DNA isolated from PBMC and RNA isolated from plasma. Evidence of porcine cells as determined by qPCR directed to the porcine mtCOII gene was not found in RNA isolated from the PBMC.

Source Cq PERV pol Cq porcine mtCOII PERV Porcine cells DNA-PBMC <LOD <LOD Negative Negative RNA-PBMC <LOD <LOD Negative Negative RNA-plasma <LOD <LOD Negative Negative

Further, a study is conducted to assess the proliferative response of human lymphocytes responder peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in the presence of mitomycin C treated porcine stimulator cells (alpha-galactosyltransferase knock out (KO) pig B173) over time. PBMC samples were obtained from patients enrolled in Sponsor Study XT-001, both before and after the transplantation of porcine skin grafts. The porcine skin grafts were obtained from genetically modified alpha-galactosyltransferase knock out (KO) pigs.

Patient PBMC samples were previously prepared by Ficoll gradient centrifugation and cryopreserved. Whole blood from the skin donor pig (B173) was previously shipped to Xeno Diagnostics (XD) and PBMCs isolated by Ficoll gradient centrifugation and cryopreserved. The day prior to setting up the MLR, samples were thawed at 37° C., washed, and rested overnight in 10% FBS/RPMI. Porcine PBMCs were mitomycin C treated (stimulators) and mixed with an equal number of test human PBMCs (responders). The MLR was incubated for seven days with BrdU added on day six. On day seven, a BrdU ELISA was performed and proliferation measured.

As shown in FIG. 52, PBMC obtained from skin graft Patient XT-001 generated positive xenogeneic MLR PBMC mixed lymphocyte responses (MLR) when cocultured with alpha-Gal KO pig 173 PBMC (same source as skin graft). The xenogeneic proliferative responses were highest in cultures from sampling Days September 4 and September 19. In contrast, the xenogeneic proliferative response from sampling Day October 3 was reduced and near autologous MLR response levels. Overall, the xenogeneic response with KO pig 173 in all time periods tested was less than the human IRB 11 allogeneic comparator.

Furthermore, a study is conducted to measure the levels of human plasma anti-porcine IgM and IgG binding to porcine peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from alpha-galactosyltransferase knock out (KO) pigs over time. Plasma samples are obtained from patients enrolled in Sponsor Study XT-001, both before and after the transplantation of porcine skin grafts. The porcine skin grafts were obtained from genetically modified alpha-galactosyltransferase knock out (KO) pigs.

In the study, the plasma samples were decomplemented in a 56° C. dry heat bath for 30 minutes. The samples were cooled and serially diluted in FACS binding/washing media. The diluted plasma samples were then incubated with KO porcine PBMCs followed by incubation with secondary antibody (PE-Goat anti human IgG and FITC-Goat anti human IgM). Appropriate compensation, Fluorescence Minus One (FMO), and Limit of Blank (LOB) controls were run in the same assay. Cells were acquired and analyzed on an ACEA NovoCyte Flow Cytometer. Binding of anti-porcine IgM and IgG was assessed using Median Fluorescence Intensity (MFI) and relative MFI obtained as follows: Relative MFI=Actual MFI value/LOB (MFI obtained using secondary antibody only in the absence of plasma).

The human plasma IgM and IgG binding was measured at four time points including pre-grafting and post grafting (Day 7, Day 16, Day 30). All actual test samples at 1:2, and 1:10 dilutions showed MFI values higher than LOB values. As shown in FIG. 53, an increase in anti-xenogeneic IgM and IgG levels was obtained above pre-existing levels on Day 16 and Day 30 as shown by an increase in relative median fluorescence intensities. The average post-assay cell viability value determined by 7AAD was 92.82%. Cells were only gated on ALIVE cells to determine IgM and IgG binding to porcine PBMCs. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method of producing a genetically reprogrammed, biologically active and metabolically active cell, tissue, and/or an organ for xenotransplantation into a human recipient, said genetically reprogrammed, biologically active and metabolically active cell, tissue, and/or an organ comprising live cells that vascularize after xenotransplantation, the method comprising: a) producing a non-wild type, biologically engineered swine comprising a nuclear genome that has been reprogrammed to replace a plurality of nucleotides in a plurality of exon regions of a major histocompatibility complex of a wild-type swine with a plurality of synthesized nucleotides from a human captured reference sequence, and wherein cells of said genetically reprogrammed swine do not present one or more surface glycan epitopes selected from alpha-Gal, Neu5Gc, and SD^(a), wherein genes encoding alpha-1,3 galactosyltransferase, cytidine monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase (CMAH), and β1,4-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase are altered such that the genetically reprogrammed swine lacks functional expression of surface glycan epitopes encoded by said genes, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of: i) at least one of the wild-type swine's SLA-1, SLA-2, and SLA-3 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C, respectively, of the human captured reference sequence; and ii) at least one the wild-type swine's SLA-6, SLA-7, and SLA-8 with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G, respectively, of the human captured reference sequence; and iii) at least one of the wild-type swine's SLA-DR and SLA-DQ with nucleotides from an orthologous exon region of HLA-DR and HLA-DQ, respectively, of the human captured reference sequence, wherein intron regions of the wild-type swine's genome are not reprogrammed, and wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises at least one of A-C: A) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's (β2-microglobulin with nucleotides from orthologous exons of a known human (β2-microglobulin from the human captured reference sequence; B) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome comprises a polynucleotide that encodes a polypeptide that is a humanized beta 2 microglobulin (hB2M) polypeptide sequence that is at least 95% identical to the amino acid sequence of beta 2 microglobulin glycoprotein expressed by the human captured reference genome; C) wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome has been reprogrammed such that, at the swine's endogenous β2-microglobulin locus, the nuclear genome has been reprogrammed to comprise a nucleotide sequence encoding β2-microglobulin polypeptide of the human recipient, wherein the reprogrammed swine nuclear genome has been reprogrammed such that the genetically reprogrammed swine lacks functional expression of the wild-type swine's endogenous β2-microglobulin polypeptides, wherein said reprogramming does not introduce any frameshifts or frame disruptions, b) confirming that said genetically reprogrammed swine is free of at least the following pathogens: (i) Ascaris species, cryptosporidium species, Echinococcus, Strongyloids sterocolis, and Toxoplasma gondii in fecal matter; (ii) Leptospira species, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), pseudorabies, transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGE)/Porcine Respiratory Coronavirus, and Toxoplasma gondii by determining antibody titers; (iii) Porcine Influenza; (iv) the following bacterial pathogens as determined by bacterial culture: Bordetella bronchisceptica, Coagulase-positive staphylococci, Coagulase-negative staphylococci, Livestock-associated methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA MRSA), Microphyton and Trichophyton spp.; (v) Porcine cytomegalovirus; and (vi) Brucella suis, and c) maintaining the swine according to a bioburden-reducing procedure, said procedure comprising maintaining the swine in an isolated closed herd, wherein all other animals in the isolated closed herd are confirmed to be free of said zoonotic pathogens, wherein the swine is isolated from contact with any non-human animals and animal housing facilities outside of the isolated closed herd; d) harvesting a biological product from said swine, wherein said harvesting comprises euthanizing the swine and aseptically removing the biological product from the swine; e) processing said biological product comprising sterilization after harvesting using a sterilization process that does not reduce cell viability to less than 50% cell viability as determined by a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT)-reduction assay; and f) storing said biological product in a sterile container under storage conditions that preserve cell viability.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the genetically reprogrammed swine is non-transgenic.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at SLA-MIC-2 gene and at exon regions encoding SLA-3, SLA-6, SLA-7, SLA-8, SLA-DQ, CTLA-4, PD-L1, EPCR, TBM, TFPI, and beta-2-microglobulin using the human capture reference sequence, wherein the human cell, tissue, or organ lacks functional expression of swine beta-2-microglobulin, SLA-1, SLA-2, and SLA-DR.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises reprogrammed nucleotides at one or more of a CTLA-4 promoter and a PD-L1 promoter, wherein the one or more of the CTLA-4 promoter and the PD-L1 promoter are reprogrammed to increase expression of one or both of reprogrammed CTLA-4 and reprogrammed PD-L1 compared to the wild-type swine's endogenous expression of CTLA-4 and PD-L1.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein a total number of the synthesized nucleotides is equal to a total number of the replaced nucleotides, such that there is no net loss or net gain in number of nucleotides after reprogramming the genome of the wild-type swine with the synthesized nucleotides.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the nuclear genome is reprogrammed using scarless exchange of the exon regions, wherein the nuclear genome is reprogrammed without introduction of any net insertions, deletions, truncations, or other genetic alterations that would cause a disruption of protein expression via frame shift, nonsense, and missense mutations.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein site-directed mutagenic substitutions are made in porcine fetal fibroblast cell, a porcine zygote, a porcine Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (IPSC), or a porcine germ-line cells.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein site-directed mutagenic substitutions are made in germ-line cells used to produce the non-human animal.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the human captured reference sequence is a human patient capture sequence, a human population-specific human capture sequence, or an allele-group-specific human capture sequence.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's MHC class I chain-related 2 (MIC-2).
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the reprogrammed genome lacks functional expression of SLA-1, SLA-2, SLA-DR, or a combination thereof.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-DQA from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-DQA1 captured reference sequence.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-DQB from an orthologous exon region of a HLA-DQB1 captured reference sequence.
 14. The method of claim 1, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-DRA and SLA-DRB1 with nucleotides from orthologous exon regions of HLA-DRA1 and HLA-DRB1 of the human captured reference sequence, or wherein the reprogrammed genome lacks functional expression of SLA-DRA and SLA-DRB1.
 15. The method of claim 1, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of the wild-type swine's SLA-DQA and SLA-DQB1 with nucleotides from orthologous exon regions of HLA-DQA1 and HLA-DQB1 of the human captured reference sequence.
 16. The method of claim 14, wherein the site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides are at codons that are not conserved between the wild-type swine's nuclear genome and the known human sequence.
 17. The method of claim 1, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of SLA-3, SLA-6, SLA-7, SLA-8, and MIC-2.
 18. The method of claim 1, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at exon regions of SLA-DQ and MIC-2.
 19. The method of claim 1, wherein the reprogrammed genome comprises site-directed mutagenic substitutions of nucleotides at SLA-3, SLA-6, SLA-7, SLA-8, SLA-DQ, and MIC-2.
 20. The method of claim 1, wherein said nuclear genome is reprogrammed to be homozygous at the reprogrammed exon regions and wherein cells of said genetically reprogrammed swine have extracellular, phenotypic surface expression of polypeptides that are tolerogenic when the cells are transplanted into the human recipient. 